Meaning: "The great people I've met always have time for the niceties" is a quote by Mercedes McCambridge, an American actress known for her work in radio, stage, film, and television. This quote captures the essence of McCambridge's observation about the behavior of exceptional individuals she has encountered in her life. It emphasizes the importance of kindness, graciousness, and courtesy in personal interactions and relationships.

In the context of this quote, "the niceties" refer to the small, thoughtful gestures and polite behaviors that reflect a person's consideration and respect for others. These may include acts of politeness, such as saying "please" and "thank you," offering a warm greeting, showing appreciation, and demonstrating empathy and understanding in conversations and interactions. The quote suggests that truly remarkable individuals, regardless of their professional or personal accomplishments, consistently prioritize these niceties in their interactions with others.

McCambridge's observation can be interpreted as a reflection of her own experiences and interactions with noteworthy individuals throughout her career in the entertainment industry. As an actress who worked alongside many prominent figures, she likely encountered a wide range of personalities, and her statement implies that she found a correlation between greatness and the ability to exhibit kindness and consideration in one's dealings with others.

One possible interpretation of this quote is that the ability to make time for niceties reflects a person's emotional intelligence and empathy. Great individuals, according to McCambridge, are those who understand the significance of these small acts of kindness and their impact on fostering positive and meaningful connections with others. By prioritizing the niceties, they demonstrate an understanding of the value of human connection and the role that genuine warmth and consideration play in building and maintaining relationships.

Furthermore, the quote can also be seen as a commentary on the nature of greatness itself. While the world often celebrates individuals for their professional achievements, talents, or contributions to society, McCambridge's quote suggests that true greatness extends beyond external accomplishments. It encompasses the way individuals conduct themselves in their daily interactions and how they treat others with respect, empathy, and kindness.

In essence, McCambridge's quote serves as a reminder that the way we treat others and the consideration we extend to them in our interactions can be a measure of our own greatness. It encourages us to prioritize the niceties in our dealings with others, recognizing that these small gestures have the power to elevate our interactions and contribute to the fabric of positive and meaningful human connections.

In conclusion, Mercedes McCambridge's quote, "The great people I've met always have time for the niceties," encapsulates an insightful observation about the behavior of exceptional individuals. It underscores the importance of kindness, graciousness, and courtesy in personal interactions and highlights the significance of prioritizing the niceties as a reflection of true greatness. The quote encourages us to consider the impact of our own actions and interactions with others, emphasizing the value of empathy, respect, and genuine warmth in fostering meaningful connections.