Nice is a pallid virtue. Not like honesty or courage or perseverance. On the other hand, in a nation frequently lacking in civility, there is much to be said for nice.

Molly Ivins (1944-2007) American writer, political columnist [Mary Tyler Ivins]

Essay (1994-05-15), “My, Oh, My, It’s the Ninth Wonder of the World,” Creators Syndicate column, Fort Worth Star-Telegram
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Collected in You Go to Dance with Them What Brung You (1998).