An excellent thread- I've only just discovered it- It's always great to hear people's impressions.

Your point about learning about yourself is well made. That's the thing I wasn't ready for, this is a journey of self discovery for both Doms & subs.

To learn so much about another person, their likes & dislikes- fears & dreams, is life changing for both people. D/s is so much more than it seems on the surface.

As for the people, I've met some of the nicest, most genuine people I've ever known.