To the Cashier Who Made Me Totally Wordless – I Salute You

This occurred on a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, topping off the family car. It was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue customers carrying goods 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 queue. A single person serving, a young woman. Something stood out to her presence. When the faffer at the first position had finally paid for his purchases, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn I heard the cashier tell him to have a great day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and used a mocking tone. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be a supporter in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for people who hold up straightforward customers including me.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. 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 “have a wonderful day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter US citizens visiting this town, certainly not working in petrol stations or other places.

Now I stood second. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her purchases, her purse and her rewards card. It went on for ever. When she was done, she too was wished an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that thing as they gaze at you, stoically, and say with absolute sincerity: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of anything hilarious to say.

Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, essentially the same as identical in effect – while she stared straight at me, to my very core, and bid me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.