There is this African saying that good name is better than gold and silver. It goes to show how Africans cherish their names.
For us, our names are precious to us, so also our fathers names. A father usually do all he can to make sure his children are well trained or know the importance of his name and that of his father.
This is why many people cannot engage in crime or cut shortcut. They know these illegal ways of acquiring wealth but will never be a part of it.
In the western part of Nigeria, we cherish what is called 'Omoluabism'. It it the quality of being calm, respectful and law abiding.
Because we know the importance of our names, we strive to create a legacy which we are known for.
This legacy is nurtured, exhibited for the world to see. It becomes something worth emulating. Directly or indirectly, our children and outsiders copy this legacy and redefined it to become theirs.
They live by it and train their children in the same manner they were taught just to maintain the family's good name.
If these children listen and turn this legacy to theirs, this ensures continuity of the family's legacy and symbol.
This is what is majorly responsible for the saying 'we don't do that in our family'. It shows the family is unique and has way of thinking or doing things which is their identity.
As individuals, we need to have that unique thing about us and our family that differentiate us from the rest of the world.
You need to have this principle and the 'omoluabism' that will make you stand out among the crowd.
You need to do everything within your power to maintain your family's name and legacy.
Just as you would not want your children to tarnish your own image or spoil your name, you should not do the same to your family's name.
Thanks for your time.