Addressing the Store Clerk Who Left Me Completely Without Words – Kudos to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I was grumpy enough, topping off the family car. The location was a typical gas station that also functions as a convenience store, so you run the risk of ending up in line shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to unfold when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.
I was fourth in the waiting line. A single person serving, a youthful clerk. Something stood out to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had completed payment for his Viakal, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him an excellent day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. I pondered if she might actually be a supporter in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down people just getting gas such as myself.
I moved up, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of the queue discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “have a wonderful day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and no British person tells people those exact words, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. You don’t get many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, least of all employed at gas stations or other places.
Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper engaged in a protracted effort with her basket, her groceries, her purse and her membership pass. It went on for ever. When she was done, she too got told to have a fantastic day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by making a witty remark in her direction, to see if she did that reaction when they look at you, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to say.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as the same thing – while she stared directly into my eyes, piercingly, and wished me an awesome day. I felt better for it. It was a good thing.
