One of the greatest joys of doing 'Comic Book Men' - I was so

In the words of George Pérez, master of line and legend, we hear a truth that is at once tender and eternal: “One of the greatest joys of doing ‘Comic Book Men’—I was so thankful—was that my wife Carol was able to appear with me. Being able to share that experience with Carol was such a monumental joy for me.” This is no idle remark, but a declaration that even in the midst of achievement, the true measure of joy is found in sharing it with those we love. The spotlight, no matter how bright, pales beside the warmth of companionship.

For Pérez, known for his mighty works in the realm of comics, from shaping heroes on the page to inspiring millions, the stage of “Comic Book Men” was a place of recognition. Yet he does not dwell upon his own acclaim. Instead, he lifts up the presence of Carol, his wife, declaring her participation as the crown of his joy. The lesson is plain: triumph tastes sweeter when not eaten alone, but when broken like bread and given to those who have walked beside us in quiet hours and unseen sacrifices.

This wisdom has ancient roots. Think of Odysseus, who after ten years of war and ten years of wandering, longed not for the halls of power or the treasure of Troy, but to sit once more beside Penelope, his wife, and share with her the stories of his struggle. His victories, his adventures, his survival—they would have been ashes in his mouth had he not returned to share them with the one he loved. So too does Pérez’s joy remind us that no achievement is complete unless it is woven into the fabric of love and companionship.

In his words is also the power of gratitude. He does not say simply that it was pleasant, but that he was “so thankful.” Gratitude is the soul’s acknowledgment that blessings are not owed but gifted. By giving thanks for Carol’s presence in his work, Pérez elevates her role from mere appearance to sacred partnership. He honors her not as a spectator, but as a co-journeyer in his triumph, affirming that the truest victories are shared.

There is also here a deeper reflection on legacy. Pérez’s art, like that of all creators, will outlive him, but the memory of sharing his success with Carol is an inheritance of the heart. It is a reminder that even as men and women strive to leave their mark upon the world, it is the bonds of love that leave the greatest mark upon the soul. For what is legacy if it is not carried first within the embrace of those closest to us?

The lesson for us is this: seek not only to achieve, but to share. When life grants you triumphs—be they small or monumental—do not hoard them as trophies, but bring into them those who have given you strength along the way. Invite your family, your friends, your companions into your victories, for in their presence your joy will be magnified.

Practically, this means to remember the ones who have walked with you in silence. Thank them openly, include them in your moments of recognition, honor them as partners in your journey. Do not allow the world’s applause to drown out the quiet voice of gratitude in your heart. For the joy of success is doubled when shared, but halved when carried alone.

Thus the words of George Pérez endure like ink upon the parchment of time: his greatest joy was not the show itself, nor the applause, but that Carol stood beside him in it. Let us carry this wisdom forward—that love shared in triumph is the highest reward, and that thankfulness for companionship is the true measure of victory. For fame fades, but the joy of shared experience becomes eternal.