To the Store Clerk That Left Me Totally Wordless – My Hat's Off to You

The scene was a Sunday morning, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. It was a typical gas station that also functions as a convenience store, so you run the risk of ending up in line people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. This is a dreadful thing to unfold when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.

My position was fourth in the waiting line. A single person serving, a female attendant. There was something unusual to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had at last settled for his purchases, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I was certain overhearing the cashier bid him a wonderful day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be an ally in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for those who delay people just getting gas like me.

Taking a step forward, now third in line. The new leader of the queue discharged her fuel-only transaction with impressive quickness. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone those exact words, or even just a nice day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, certainly not holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

I was second now. Behind a poor older woman engaged in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her groceries, her handbag and her loyalty card. This took an eternity. When she was done, the woman also received the wish a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark to her, to check for that reaction as they gaze at you, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to utter.

Ultimately, I accepted the genuine warmth – or an impersonation of it, that equates to no different – with which she looked directly into my eyes, to my very core, and bid me an awesome day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.