Understanding Oneself

People may think that they know who they are from an early age but in my experience it can take a long time to figure yourself out.  I went through years of self hatred and anger but once I learned and accepted who I am I have become a happier person.  Sure there are people who try and shoot me down, which can sometimes be hard since some are family, but I've learned to try and just brush it off.  I fought for years against myself  in order to be the person everyone wanted me to be but not anymore.  I finally understand who I am and that I can't do anything to change it and in that knowledge I have found more happiness and contentment than I've ever had before.  I like who I am.  I am still learning and one day I may be more open but for now I feel no need to shout anything from the rooftops but I'm not hiding either.