Yes! To be my authentic self has taken a lifetime of living and learning. We peel off the onion when we feel safe, and for many years I did not feel safe to be myself. I wasn't in a position where I could honestly shed those annoying layers. Upon my divorce I was able to become who I was intended to be and I continue to grow. Your insights are very deep and as simple as the words are the concepts are not easily absorbed until a person is ready. Some people are ready before others. Shedding the onion skin is a very liberating feeling and I will never go back.