To the Cashier Who Left Me Completely Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
This occurred on a day of rest, and I was grumpy enough, topping off my mother's vehicle. This was a common fuel stop that operates as a supermarket, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to occur when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.
My position was fourth in the waiting line. Just one employee working, a female attendant. There was something unusual to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had completed payment for his Viakal, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him an excellent day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I wondered if she might actually be a supporter in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for those who delay simple fuel-buyers like me.
Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The person ahead of our line finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” To be precise, it was “have a wonderful day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and few locals tells people a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Quite out of place. You don’t get US citizens frequenting this area, least of all working in petrol stations or other places.
Now I stood second. After an elderly lady embroiled in a right old battle with her carryall, her food items, her wallet and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, the woman also was wished a wonderful day. Yes, American for sure. I might have verified it by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that reaction as they gaze at you, without a smile, and say with absolute sincerity: “That is quite humorous.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to identical in effect – as she gazed directly into my eyes, to my very core, and bid me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.
