One of the most important rules of being part of La Cosa Nostra is omerta; the code of silence each honorable made man takes when he enters a Family. It essentially means that a made man is never to discuss any Family business or activities with any outsider (not including associates). You become a rat by breaking the code, and you'll pay with your life (it's not only the Mounties who always get their man).
This is our protective barrier...
It's omerta that keeps La Cosa Nostra protected and shielded from outside forces, whether it be other mob-wannabes or law enforcement. It's also part of the honor code, which also includes vows to respect the organization's rules, hierarchy, rules of conduct, and punishments for breaking any code. Above all, the honor code implies that no man is above his Family, and that no man should put anything or anybody ahead of his Family (not the other family).
In return, the Family protects and supports you (and in case of death, supports your family). You trust and rely on your Family in bad times, just like in good. That support is always there if you are loyal, productive or an influential member of the Family.
Loyalty, obedience, honor... you see a pattern emerging here? The public is fooled into thinking we are a bunch of thugs thanks to the media, but we are men & woman above all -- honorable, educated, business-savvy men & woman. Don't you forget that.
