Addressing the Store Clerk Who Made Me Totally Speechless – I Salute You
It was a weekend morning, and I felt in a foul mood, topping off my mum’s car. This was a typical gas station that doubles as a grocery store, which often leads of waiting behind people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to unfold when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Dreadful.
My position was fourth in the queue. A single person serving, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. When the faffer at the head of the line had finally paid for a cleaning product, his pastry, and his box of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him a wonderful day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I wondered if perhaps she was a comrade in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers like me.
Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our group finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find US citizens frequenting this area, least of all employed at gas stations or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. After an elderly lady dealing with a lengthy struggle with her shopping cart, her purchases, her purse and her membership pass. The process dragged on. Once completed, she too received the wish a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to see if she did that thing when they look at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to utter.
I just had to settle for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – as she gazed me right in the eye, piercingly, and told me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.