The stories in this book reflect the experiences of ordinary Celtic fans and exemplify the depths of affection they have for the club. The language is sometimes the language of the terraces, but those rough tongues still express a love for their club unmatched in the football world. These are tales of victories to be celebrated, of hard times to be endured and of great players who enriched our lives with their brilliance. From the despair of John Thomson’s death to the triumph of Lisbon, the story of Celtic and their supporters represents an incredible journey. However, above all these are the stories of those amazing supporters without whom Celtic Football Club would have been stillborn like so many other clubs which appeared and then vanished in late Victorian Scotland. Every generation passes on its values and heritage to the proceeding generation and for many, Celtic was their greatest gift to their children. In our early days it may have been a grandfather, uncle, father or mother took us to Celtic Park for the first time or who filled our heads with tales of great players or games from the dim and distant past. But once we felt that connection with Celtic, that continuity of history stretching back to 1888, we were hooked. We became part of the story and joined in the incredible journey a community and its club has undertaken. That journey is far from over and there are many pages yet to be written about this unique football club and the supporters who made it great. It may be our task one day to pass on the gift of Celtic to a new generation and to teach them why this club is loved by so many. I for one thank those who came before me and passed on to me the gift of Celtic.