For the Store Clerk Who Left Me Absolutely Speechless – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a Sunday morning, and I found myself in a foul mood, refueling my mum’s car. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a convenience store, which often leads of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. This is a dreadful thing to occur when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Dreadful.
Fourth in line I stood among those waiting. A single cashier operating, a young woman. There was something unusual in her demeanor. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had finally paid for his Viakal, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier wish him to have a great day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. I wondered if she might actually be a comrade in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for those who delay simple fuel-buyers including me.
Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The new leader of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with impressive quickness. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? In Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person says to others such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. It's uncommon to find people from America frequenting this area, least of all working in petrol stations or other places.
Second in line at last. After an elderly lady engaged in a right old battle with her basket, her food items, her wallet and her rewards card. It went on for ever. Once completed, the woman also got told a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to check for that thing as they gaze at you, without a smile, and say with absolute sincerity: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to express.
In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and bid me an awesome day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.
