To the Cashier Who Made Me Completely Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I felt in a foul mood, refueling my mother's vehicle. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to occur when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Dreadful.
My position was fourth in the waiting line. Just one person serving, a young woman. Something stood out about her. When the faffer at the front of the queue had at last settled for his purchases, his sausage roll, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier bid him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and was being sarcastic. I wondered if perhaps she was an ally in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas including me.
Advancing next, now third in line. The new leader of our line discharged her fuel-only transaction with notable efficiency. Once more it happened: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and few locals says to others those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. You don’t get US citizens visiting this town, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.
Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman engaged in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her groceries, her wallet and her loyalty card. The process dragged on. When she was done, the woman also got told a wonderful day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke to her, to check for that reaction their typical stare, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” Yet no idea came of anything hilarious to express.
In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, which amounts to the same thing – with which she looked directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and told me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.
