A long time ago a Sicilian family moved next door. They did something that annoyed me and I went over to confront the man of the house. My first words must have seemed over confrontational, as I sensed his negative reaction. I immediately changed my approach by saying, "We are going to live side by side for some time, and if there is something that you are doing that pisses me off, I will come and look you in the eye and we can discuss it...and I expect the same from you". He said, "We can do it that way, or you can come over and put a gun to my head". We have been good friends ever since.
I grew up with Sicilian friends in my youth, and I knew how to deal with them. They either love you or won't give you the time of day.
I think dealing with a strong element of respect is the right approach
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