For the Store Clerk Who Left Me Absolutely Speechless – My Hat's Off to You

This occurred on a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, topping off the family car. This was a typical gas station that operates as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to happen when all you want is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.

Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. Just one cashier operating, a young woman. There was something unusual to her presence. When the faffer at the front of the queue had finally paid for his Viakal, his pastry, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn I heard the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I wondered if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for people who hold up people just getting gas such as myself.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of the queue finished pumping gas with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” No, actually, it was “have a wonderful day”. An American? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person says to others such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter people from America visiting this town, certainly not holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.

I was second now. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her groceries, her wallet and her rewards card. This took an eternity. Once completed, the woman also got told a wonderful day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke in her direction, to observe that thing their typical stare, stoically, and say with absolute sincerity: “You are very amusing.” Yet no idea came of anything hilarious to express.

Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to the same thing – with which she looked me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and told me to have a great day. It improved my mood. A positive experience.