This group shot perfectly captures that era, and does so in truly magnificent fashion. I have to admit that seeing this, the very morning after "LOST" ended so wonderfully, left me reeling with emotion all over again.

There is just so much "right" about the history represented by this piece of art. Congratulations to whomever receives this gem, and to John for demonstrating - yet again - how to honor comics and the characters that we've all loved.

What is laying on the floor under Colossus' foot?

Wow. Great looking, JB. Love the layout of all the characters.

You still draw the best Cyclops.

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Well, "John" means "a gift of God", so. . . .

Seriously -- working on this piece, and flipping thru the pertinent volumes of ESSENTIAL X-MEN, of course had me flipping past pages of Dave Cockrum's art, and being reminded of how very, very, very intimidated I felt following him on the book.

Segueing briefly into the time travel thread, it would be somewhat gratifying to step thru a wormhole to 1977, with this piece tucked under my arm, to show my younger self that it will, in the long result, work out okay!

What an amazing piece to wake up and see first thing in the morning. I love the Dazzler poster on the floor. No one does X-Men as well as JB!

Looking at these and the thread title brings to mind that old Billy Joel tune from which the lyrics are sung.  Always good to see the characters therein in the same way that I was introduced to them.

   Speaking of Jim Shooter and "unrealistic" healing factors... he must've had a very selective suspension of disbelief there.  Wolverine's healing factor would be no more realistic than the Hulk punching his way through a battleship without even putting a scratch on his knuckles.  Yeesh!