In this article, the author, a Oscar Causey award winner, examines the major concepts that have characterized his 40-year career in literacy research. He describes how his understanding of these concepts developed, and particularly who and what influenced his work and how he used these influences. A summary of his current understandings and beliefs, and a discussion of the work currently being performed by himself and others that is shaping the future of these understandings and beliefs, are presented.