For the Cashier Who Made Me Totally Without Words – I Salute You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I was sufficiently irritable, filling up my mother's vehicle. This was a typical gas station that operates as a grocery store, so you run the risk of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to unfold when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.
Fourth in line I stood among those waiting. A single employee working, a female attendant. Something stood out in her demeanor. After the ditherer at the first position had finally paid for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, I was certain that I heard the cashier wish him a wonderful day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I pondered if she might actually be a supporter in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for those who delay simple fuel-buyers like me.
Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The new leader of our line discharged her fuel-only transaction with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone those exact words, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter many Americans frequenting this area, and definitely not working in petrol stations or elsewhere.
Second in line at last. After an elderly lady engaged in a protracted effort with her carryall, her food items, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, she as well was wished a wonderful day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke in her direction, to observe that response their typical stare, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” Yet no idea came of anything hilarious to utter.
In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to the same thing – as she gazed me right in the eye, piercingly, and bid me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. Beneficial indeed.
