I think people that are drawn to kink, alternative lifestyle, fetishes, perversions - all of this, we have always been drawn to something our muggle friends were not.
I asked for *lots* of jump ropes from my Grandma. I then asked to be tied up back when I was a small girl playing on the block with my fellow "normal" friends. Lois Lane, Penny from "Sky King", the Ladies in Big Valley, etc., etc. were all being tied up on TV. It was considered a valid request. Only, I could never decide if I liked the boy that would tie me up, taunt and tease me or the boy that rescued me better.
Then, in life, you meet other people that like other fetishes or you are lucky enough to meet someone in the scene and they tell you about a *party* (okay, so now days you all have it easier with the Internet), and like all people with hobbies, you can go to a trade show and find out about all the different things available and your list of likes and want to's becomes longer.
When you find a hobby you like, you have a passion for, I think it is pretty normal to explore it, make time for it, and treasure your experiences. I had play partners back in the 90 and 00's that all we did was go through the bondage.com list and see what we were yay or nay about. Somethings I was simply nay about, like scat. I have Domme girlfriends that do that play though.
I think it is key to be non-judgmental about other people's kink, play, fetishes, pointing fingers at others when you want people to be accepting of you isn't cool. That is different that having a standard that people play safe, sane, and consensual.
The journey of exploring one's submissive side is ever evolving if you are actively engaging in the practice of exploring it. I learn new things, have new insights every day. That is fascinating. That keeps me interested in exploring.
There is nothing more satisfying than a partner that shows up eager and ready to play. I am instantly turned on by this. this situation is already a win/win. Now there is just connecting and having fun together.
I love this.
I love my life.
~An