I have a bit of a soft spot for the Jehovah's Witnesses who occasionally come to the house. Most people, it seems, have no time for anyone who is selling anything, especially at the front door.. Religion especially gets in their craw and can lead to uncalled-for rudeness. Some of the social media postings border on the hysterical.

I am not sure if faith matters are a thing for doorstop conversations, but the fact that these folks take the time to care about the spiritual welfare of their neighbours shows an uncommon kindness. A young couple came by an hour or so ago and we chatted amiably about faith, though we have do have some key differences. But we had much more in common. and that was the focus of our chat.

The argument that religion is a 'private matter' is a foolish copout. Sure, you have every right to construct a god that fits your view of the divine and accommodates all your foibles, though no such god actually exists. And you have every right to be agnostic or an atheist.

The latter are especially brave. They have taken a black and white stand, without pretence. It won't help in the end, but it shows courage, nevertheless.