Addressing the Store Clerk Who Made Me Totally Wordless – I Salute You
The scene was a day of rest, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. The location was a typical gas station that doubles as a grocery store, which often leads of joining a queue customers carrying goods of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to unfold when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.
My position was fourth in the waiting line. Just one cashier operating, a youthful clerk. A peculiar quality in her demeanor. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had completed payment for his Viakal, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I was certain that I heard the cashier wish him to have a great day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. I pondered if she might actually be an ally in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers including me.
Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The person ahead of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone a wonderful day, or merely a pleasant day. Quite out of place. It's uncommon to find many Americans frequenting this area, least of all working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
I was second now. After an elderly lady embroiled in a right old battle with her basket, her purchases, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. After she finished, she as well received the wish an excellent day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke in her direction, to observe that thing their typical stare, without a smile, and say with absolute sincerity: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to say.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, that equates to the same thing – with which she looked straight at me, to my very core, and wished me to have a great day. I felt better for it. It was a good thing.
