The benevolent Gandalf is an extremely powerful wizard who's seen it all. He has the respect of everyone in Middle Earth it seems, from Elf to Man to Hobbit.

And although Gandalf is mainly preoccupied with insuring Frodo is successful on his journey to Mount Doom, he spreads wisdom to anyone he encounters.

Tope quote

Frodo: "You're late."
Gandalf: "A wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to."