To the Store Clerk That Left Me Totally Without Words – My Hat's Off to You

This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I felt grumpy enough, refueling my mother's vehicle. It was a common fuel stop that operates as a supermarket, so you run the risk of waiting behind shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to happen when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Awful.

I was fourth among those waiting. There was only cashier operating, a female attendant. There was something unusual to her presence. After the ditherer at the head of the line had at last settled for a cleaning product, his pastry, and some breakfast items, I was certain overhearing the cashier wish him an excellent day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and used a mocking tone. I wondered if perhaps she was an ally in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers like me.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The new leader of our line finished pumping gas with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper engaged in a right old battle with her basket, her groceries, her handbag and her membership pass. This took an eternity. When she was done, the woman also received the wish an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark to her, to see if she did that response as they gaze at you, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to say.

In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to no different – with which she looked directly into my eyes, to my very core, and told me an awesome day. It improved my mood. A positive experience.