I don't take off my nail polish when I go home because I'm too lazy, and they're fine with it. Maybe the checkout at the grocery store's not so great with it, but they're fine with it. The distrust, the phobias, those are learned, those are taught. But the natural grace is to understand and to love.

In this quote, Jeffrey Tambor reflects on the idea of acceptance and authenticity in everyday life. He mentions how he doesn't bother to remove his nail polish when he returns home, signaling his comfort with being himself, regardless of societal norms or expectations. This casual attitude toward his personal expression emphasizes his belief in embracing one's true self without feeling the need to conform to traditional gender roles or standards, especially in the private or familial context where acceptance is unconditional.

Tambor goes on to acknowledge that while his family is fine with his self-expression, the reaction of people in public, such as the checkout at the grocery store, might not always be as accepting. This highlights the difference between personal, familial acceptance and the often more judgmental or uncomfortable reactions people may face in society. Tambor contrasts these experiences to point out that while societal norms may foster distrust or phobias about self-expression, these attitudes are learned rather than innate.

By stating, "the distrust, the phobias, those are learned, those are taught," Tambor emphasizes that negative attitudes toward differences in gender expression or identity are not natural but are instead instilled by society or culture. He suggests that the natural grace of human beings is to understand and love one another, irrespective of outward appearances or expressions. In his view, acceptance and love are inherent qualities that should prevail over the fear or misunderstanding that often arises from unfamiliarity.

Ultimately, Tambor’s quote is a reminder that the prejudices and phobias people harbor are not innate but are shaped by external influences. It underscores the importance of embracing individuality and authenticity, as well as the value of love and acceptance in human interactions. By being comfortable in his own skin, Tambor advocates for a more open-minded and compassionate approach to how we view others, particularly those who might not fit traditional molds.