For the Store Clerk Who Left Me Absolutely Wordless – I Salute You
This occurred on a weekend morning, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, refueling the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a convenience store, so you run the risk of waiting behind customers carrying goods of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to unfold when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Awful.
Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. There was only cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. Once the slowpoke at the first position had at last settled for a cleaning product, his sausage roll, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier tell him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. I wondered if she could even be a supporter in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for those who delay straightforward customers like me.
Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The new leader of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? In Stourbridge? She had the accent, and few locals wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or merely a pleasant day. Quite out of place. You don’t get many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, least of all employed at gas stations or anywhere else.
I was second now. After an elderly lady embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her groceries, her purse and her loyalty card. The process dragged on. When she was done, she too received the wish a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to observe that reaction as they gaze at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to express.
I just had to settle for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, that equates to identical in effect – as she gazed me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and told me to have a great day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.
