Addressing the Checkout Assistant Who Left Me Absolutely Without Words – Kudos to You

This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I felt sufficiently irritable, filling up my mother's vehicle. It was one of those petrol stations that operates as a convenience store, so you run the risk of joining a queue shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. This is a dreadful thing to occur when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.

I was fourth among those waiting. Just one person serving, a young woman. Something stood out in her demeanor. When the faffer at the head of the line had completed payment for a cleaning product, his pastry, and a carton of eggs, I was certain overhearing the cashier tell him an excellent day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or possibly she uttered it and used a mocking tone. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was a supporter in my fight against faff, sharing my contempt for those who delay people just getting gas like me.

Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The new leader of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. Someone from the US? At this location? She had the accent, and no British person wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, least of all employed at gas stations or other places.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a right old battle with her basket, her groceries, her purse and her membership pass. It went on for ever. When she was done, she too was wished to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. I might have verified it by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that reaction when they look at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of a jest to express.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or an impersonation of it, essentially the same as identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, to my very core, and bid me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.