I feel like commenting here that a loving bdsm or whatever relationship is, IMO, not a profession, or a job, or something you study formally to do. Some have chosen that way, fine for them. But to other people, most other people, a relationship is a journey you take toghether, learning all the way.
Please do not feel that there is anything wrong with the way you two are doing things.
...there is a big dif between an actual punnishment and a "fun"ishment. A lot of people seem to mistake the one for the other and vice versa.
Comunication is paramount between all involved partners.
Does your dominant allow you to communicate freely with him and in turn comunicates freely with you (without fear of reprisal)?
Does he explain it all too you or leave you in the dark?[/COLOR]
I totally agree that it is important with communication, for example, do you know if your punishments are one sort or the other?
If you are still in doubt, in spite of being told that you are doing well, do talk to him.