To the Store Clerk Who Left Me Completely Wordless – Kudos to You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I found myself in a foul mood, topping off the family car. This was a common fuel stop that operates as a grocery store, so you run the risk of waiting behind shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to happen when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.
Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. A single person serving, a young woman. There was something unusual to her presence. After the ditherer at the head of the line had finally paid for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and used a mocking tone. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be an ally in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas such as myself.
I moved up, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of our group finished pumping gas with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? At this location? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here says to others such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. You don’t get people from America knocking around Stourbridge, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or other places.
Second in line at last. After an elderly lady dealing with a right old battle with her basket, her food items, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, the woman also received the wish a wonderful day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke at the cashier, to check for that reaction their typical stare, unsmilingly, and say with absolute sincerity: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of anything hilarious to utter.
In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to the same thing – with which she looked straight at me, deep into my soul, and bid me an awesome day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.
