To the Store Clerk Who Left Me Completely Speechless – I Salute You

It was a weekend morning, and I was sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. This was a common fuel stop that doubles as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to unfold when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Awful.

Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. A single person serving, a youthful clerk. There was something unusual to her presence. When the faffer at the front of the queue had completed payment for his purchases, his pastry, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier bid him to have a great day. Odd. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I pondered if perhaps she was an ally in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for people who hold up straightforward customers such as myself.

I moved up, to third in the queue. The new leader of our group completed her gasoline purchase with impressive quickness. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “have a wonderful day”. An American? At this location? She had the accent, and few locals wishes anyone those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, and definitely not employed at gas stations or other places.

Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a lengthy struggle with her basket, her purchases, her wallet and her rewards card. This took an eternity. After she finished, the woman also was wished an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark at the cashier, to observe that reaction as they gaze at you, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to express.

Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to no different – while she stared directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and told me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.