To the Store Clerk That Made Me Completely Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I felt sufficiently irritable, refueling the family car. The location was a typical gas station that operates as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line customers carrying goods of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to unfold when the sole aim is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.
Fourth in line I stood in the queue. Just one person serving, a youthful clerk. A peculiar quality about her. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had finally paid for his purchases, his pastry, and his box of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him an excellent day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. I wondered if perhaps she was a comrade in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay straightforward customers such as myself.
Taking a step forward, now third in line. The new leader of our line discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” To be precise, it was “have a wonderful day”. A stateside native? In Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and few locals wishes anyone those exact words, or simply a good day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find many Americans visiting this town, least of all employed at gas stations or other places.
Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a protracted effort with her basket, her food items, her handbag and her loyalty card. The process dragged on. Once completed, she as well was wished to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark to her, to observe that thing their typical stare, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to say.
In the end, I embraced the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, essentially the same as the same thing – as she gazed me right in the eye, to my very core, and wished me an awesome day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.
