...Tom complained about a virus on his home computer. I offered to come round and remove it. He seemed quite flattered. He ordered in some Indian food and we ended up having a good chat.

...Last night after tennis, Tom commented to me that he was disgusted by more news about child abuse by priests. I said, 'Yeah, it's a disgrace, especially when Christ talks about helping the weak and His so-called followers exploit vulnerable kids.' Later I was able to comment that our church really watches out for children, and has a zero tolerance policy. Strangely enough, it seemed a natural time to declare my Christianity, but not wave it in his face.

... He invited me to his birthday party. I had a great time. Most people got steadily drunk, but I think I had just as many laughs. I stayed till the conversation became completely silly, and then said my good-byes.

...Today on lunch-break the topic of suicide-bombers came up. Tom asked me what Christians believe happens when you die. I gave a short reply and gave him a chance to change the topic, but he actually pushed me for more information about heaven, hell, purgatory and all that.

Another day we got talking about sex and relationships. Later I asked him to tell me what he thought of a copy of LIFE.info magazine, an edition with a great article on 'hot monogamy'. This started a frank discussion where I was able to express my values without preaching.