For the Store Clerk Who Left Me Totally Wordless – I Salute You

This occurred on a day of rest, and I was sufficiently irritable, topping off my mother's vehicle. The location was a common fuel stop that operates as a grocery store, so you run the risk of joining a queue people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to happen when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.

I was fourth in the waiting line. There was only cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the first position had finally paid for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. I wondered if perhaps she was an ally in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down straightforward customers including me.

Advancing next, to third in the queue. The next shopper of the queue discharged her fuel-only transaction with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” In fact, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? At this location? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here says to others those exact words, or even just a nice day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find many Americans frequenting this area, and definitely not working in petrol stations or other places.

I was second now. After an elderly lady embroiled in a protracted effort with her carryall, her groceries, her purse and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. When she was done, she as well got told to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark in her direction, to observe that response when they look at you, stoically, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to express.

In the end, I embraced the genuine warmth – or an impersonation of it, that equates to no different – while she stared straight at me, deep into my soul, and bid me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.