Addressing the Cashier That Left Me Absolutely Speechless – My Hat's Off to You

This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a supermarket, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line customers carrying goods of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to happen when all you want is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.

Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. There was only cashier operating, a young woman. There was something unusual to her presence. When the faffer at the head of the line had at last settled for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him a wonderful day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. I wondered if she might actually be an ally in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for people who hold up people just getting gas such as myself.

Advancing next, now third in line. The new leader of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with impressive quickness. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and hardly anyone here tells people a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Very rare. You don’t get US citizens visiting this town, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

Second in line at last. After an elderly lady embroiled in a protracted effort with her basket, her purchases, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, she too received the wish to have a fantastic day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by making a witty remark in her direction, to see if she did that response when they look at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to express.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, that equates to no different – with which she looked directly into my eyes, to my very core, and bid me to have a great day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.