Addressing the Cashier Who Made Me Absolutely Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I felt grumpy enough, topping off my mum’s car. This was one of those petrol stations that operates as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to unfold when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Awful.
Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. A single cashier operating, a youthful clerk. A peculiar quality about her. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for a cleaning product, his pastry, and a carton of eggs, I was certain overhearing the cashier bid him a wonderful day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. I pondered if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers such as myself.
I moved up, now third in line. The new leader of our line completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “have a wonderful day”. An American? In Stourbridge? She had the accent, and no British person says to others those exact words, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter US citizens knocking around Stourbridge, least of all employed at gas stations or elsewhere.
I was second now. After an elderly lady engaged in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her groceries, her purse and her rewards card. It went on for ever. Once completed, the woman also got told an excellent day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark to her, to observe that reaction as they gaze at you, stoically, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, that equates to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and wished me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.
