To the Checkout Assistant That Made Me Completely Wordless – I Salute You

This occurred on a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, refueling the family car. The location was a typical gas station that also functions as a convenience store, which often leads of waiting behind customers carrying goods of slightly overpriced groceries. A terrible fate to unfold when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.

I was fourth among those waiting. A single employee working, a female attendant. Something stood out to her presence. When the faffer at the first position had finally paid for his purchases, his sausage roll, and some breakfast items, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him to have a great day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I wondered if she might actually be an ally in my battle with dithering, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down people just getting gas like me.

Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our line discharged her fuel-only transaction with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter people from America visiting this town, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.

Now I stood second. After an elderly lady engaged in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her groceries, her wallet and her membership pass. The process dragged on. When she was done, she as well received the wish to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to see if she did that response when they look at you, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to say.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as the same thing – with which she looked me right in the eye, to my very core, and bid me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.