The role of stable isotopes in geochemistries of all types

Although I was surprised by the invitation to write a prefatory chapter for the Annual Review of Earth and Planetary Sciences, I decided to accept this opportunity to write about my experiences as a participant in the isotope geochemistry revolution that occurred 40–50 years ago. My own experiences during the early stages of my life were uniquely intertwined with those of many of the leaders of this revolution, and thus I was allowed to witness and participate in many remarkable changes in the science as a whole. In addition, I thought that my contribution might be of some interest to the members of a younger generation, to help them judge whether a scientific career could be interesting, rewarding, and worth working hard for to accomplish something. This chapter also gives me the opportunity to express my appreciation to some of the teachers, early colleagues, and students whose influences were important in my life.