Being a Muslim in Bristol or anywhere else in the western world is, for many, becoming increasingly difficult.

And I don't mean in a "losing faith" way. I mean in the burden of growing responsibility it carries.

The more I talk to my fellow Muslims, the more I'm becoming aware that they seem to be walking on egg shells. An increasing number are less willing to stand for their faith openly, and less confident even just to talk about it.

I can understand their reluctance.

I'm perhaps, in a better position than most to know how misquoted and misunderstood my religion is.

The people that take the time and effort to comment on my column every week are, in some cases, a microcosm of the kind of negative language and responses that many Muslims read and hear everyday, associated with their faith.

Every Muslim nowadays, whether they like it or not, or accepts it or not, is an ambassador for their faith.

From the eloquent preacher, bringing comfort and solace to countless hearts, to the rabid extremist willing to go to heaven for a very earthly cause.

All of them, and everyone in between, if they happen to be Muslim, are ambassadors for Islam.

So it's time Muslims wised up to it, and acted accordingly.

It is especially true of those that are obviously Muslim.

If you have shunned western dress and are more comfortable in eastern clothes then so be it. But don't then walk down the street with a frown.

Smile! Say "hello", (yes, "hello"), to the people, the complete strangers you meet in the street.

Be polite. I know you don't have to be, no one else is, but that's the point.

You do. You are Muslim. If you are a Muslim taxi driver, opting to wear eastern clothes – that's fine too.

But that must be a universally recognised sign of assurance that you will be honest and fair, in the fare you charge.

If you are a Muslim shopkeeper with a long beard, don't then stand behind the sales counter selling alcohol? I know everyone else does it, but you are Muslim!

I'm not saying I'm perfect. I'm far from it, and accept equal blame. And I know it sounds harsh.

But with so many causing so much misunderstanding of our faith, if we all, and I mean all, don't start acting the part, then not only is society all the more poorer for it, but our faith is that much weaker.

It is high time to take up your office, ambassador.