Sounds like you have been through the forest and now enjoy the sunshine in the meadow, while he's still fighting the underbrush and the giant squirrels. You can help, but you can't lead. This is where a sub has to grasp his own courage lest the swamp demons pull him under. But you seem to know this.I'm really letting him take the lead on how much he wants to talk about it, with me kinda being ifn the background just trying to be reaffirming. (Which is SOOO hard since I'm the rather dominate personality in our relationship - so giving him that opportunity to lead might be another amazing step for him as well.)
He may also be more comfortable with his own deviations/wanderings than with your acceptance (or encouragement) of his. You and he will have to work this out, too. There is a certain amount of secrecy/exposure-danger that some find necessary for their enjoyment of CD - especially among those who come from a strong religious background.
(Sorry for all the mixed metaphors, but it's that kind of day for me.)
That looks like a Renfaire gown - very nice! I was just at Kage Baker's tribute site, missing her and her writing and her kind, blessed ways, and you look and sound very much like her younger self. Hope that reference doesn't throw you off. It's meant well.
Welcome, indeed!