Yes, people can indeed change if they really want to.
Of course it is not easy at all, but changing oneself depends on the person and nothing else.
About the question of "What makes you, you?" the answer is all of the experiences we have on a daily basis, we are simply the result of said experiences and interactions, they shape us.
I agree. I think we retain some essence of ourselves no matter what, but change is what life is all about. Changing for the better. I think there are plenty of examples of people who had a rough start, but ended up contributing and being great people.
Agreed!! :D
I totally agree with you :)