Famous men and women in a wide range of occupations tell heartfelt, sometimes sad, sometimes humorous, and often inspirational stories about their best-remembered Christmas. Many times, the Christmas they remember best was when they were poor, perhaps out of work, alone, and with little hope. Yet, they felt the spirit of Christmas within them that brought new hope.

Their stories can inspire us today who are coping with global terrorism, violence and, for many, physical, emotional, or economic concerns that are especially hard to deal with at Christmas. If you’re alone, you can spend Christmas with those of the famous who know what that is like.