To the Checkout Assistant That Made Me Totally Speechless – Kudos to You
This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I was in a foul mood, refueling the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a supermarket, which often leads of joining a queue customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to occur when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Awful.
My position was fourth among those waiting. Just one cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. When the faffer at the front of the queue had finally paid for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, I was certain that I heard the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. I pondered if she might actually be an ally in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for those who delay people just getting gas such as myself.
Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The next shopper of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? In Stourbridge? She had the accent, and no British person wishes anyone a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find many Americans visiting this town, least of all working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
I was second now. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her purchases, her purse and her rewards card. It went on for ever. When she was done, she as well received the wish a wonderful day. Clearly an American. I might have verified it by cracking a joke in her direction, to observe that response when they look at you, unsmilingly, and say with absolute sincerity: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, essentially the same as identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, deep into my soul, and bid me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.
