To the Store Clerk Who Made Me Completely Wordless – Kudos to You
It was a day of rest, and I found myself in a foul mood, topping off my mum’s car. The location was one of those petrol stations that operates as a supermarket, so you run the risk of waiting behind shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to happen when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.
Fourth in line I stood in the queue. Just one cashier operating, a young woman. A peculiar quality in her demeanor. When the faffer at the front of the queue had completed payment for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and his box of eggs, I was certain overhearing the cashier wish him an excellent day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down straightforward customers like me.
Advancing next, to third in the queue. The next shopper of our line completed her gasoline purchase with impressive quickness. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Quite out of place. Rarely does one encounter many Americans visiting this town, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.
Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper dealing with a protracted effort with her basket, her groceries, her handbag and her rewards card. The process dragged on. When she was done, she as well received the wish an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious to her, to check for that thing their typical stare, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “That is quite humorous.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, that equates to identical in effect – with which she looked me right in the eye, to my very core, and wished me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.