Paladin: Erudite or High Elf

[Faywind]

I am thinking of making a Paladin and did some research on them over the past few days. One thing I can't decide on is the race. I know I want either Erudite or High Elf.

High Elf was my original choice due to Nature's Defender but Erudite seems pretty cool as well with the Erudite Pally Shield.

Any Paladin veterans out there that can chime in with their experience?

Thanks!