To the Store Clerk That Made Me Totally Wordless – I Salute You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I was grumpy enough, filling up the family car. It was a common fuel stop that operates as a convenience store, which often leads of joining a queue customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to unfold when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
My position was fourth among those waiting. Just one cashier operating, a female attendant. A peculiar quality about her. After the ditherer at the head of the line had at last settled for his purchases, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn I heard the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and was being sarcastic. I pondered if perhaps she was a supporter in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down straightforward customers such as myself.
I moved up, now third in line. The next shopper of our group completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and no British person tells people a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Highly unusual. You don’t get US citizens knocking around Stourbridge, least of all employed at gas stations or elsewhere.
I was second now. After an elderly lady dealing with a protracted effort with her carryall, her food items, her handbag and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. When she was done, she too got told a wonderful day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that thing their typical stare, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to say.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as the same thing – as she gazed directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and bid me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.
