Over the past decade, gravitational-wave astronomy has transformed from a long-standing theoretical pursuit into an observational science. The first detection not only confirmed expectations shaped by decades of pioneering work, but also reshaped the landscape of astrophysics. This talk will revisit key episodes in the early development of the field, examine how foundational ideas guided later breakthroughs, and reflect on what the 2015 discovery set in motion. By tracing this historical arc, I will discuss what lessons it offers for the next stage of gravitational-wave research and how past experience can inform future directions.