To the Store Clerk That Made Me Completely Wordless – Kudos to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, filling up my mum’s car. The location was a typical gas station that doubles as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to occur when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.
Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. Just one cashier operating, a youthful clerk. Something stood out in her demeanor. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had completed payment for his purchases, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I could have sworn I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I pondered if she could even be an ally in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for people who hold up simple fuel-buyers including me.
Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our line discharged her fuel-only transaction with impressive quickness. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Very rare. You don’t get US citizens visiting this town, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper engaged in a right old battle with her basket, her purchases, her handbag and her rewards card. It went on for ever. When she was done, the woman also was wished an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to check for that thing when they look at you, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to express.
In the end, I embraced the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, that equates to the same thing – as she gazed directly into my eyes, piercingly, and bid me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.
