For the Store Clerk Who Made Me Completely Without Words – Kudos to You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off my mother's vehicle. This was a typical gas station that also functions as a grocery store, so you run the risk of waiting behind people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to happen when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
I was fourth in the waiting line. A single cashier operating, a female attendant. A peculiar quality to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had completed payment for his Viakal, his pastry, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me that I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I pondered if perhaps she was an ally in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down people just getting gas including me.
Advancing next, now third in line. The next shopper of our group completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone those exact words, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. It's uncommon to find many Americans frequenting this area, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.
I was second now. After an elderly lady dealing with a lengthy struggle with her shopping cart, her food items, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. Once completed, she as well got told an excellent day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious in her direction, to check for that response their typical stare, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.
I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, which amounts to the same thing – as she gazed me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and wished me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. A positive experience.