To the Store Clerk That Left Me Totally Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, filling up my mother's vehicle. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a supermarket, so you run the risk of ending up in line shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to occur when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.
Fourth in line I stood among those waiting. There was only person serving, a young woman. A peculiar quality to her presence. When the faffer at the head of the line had finally paid for his Viakal, his pastry, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him a wonderful day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. I wondered if perhaps she was a comrade in my battle with dithering, sharing my contempt for those who delay simple fuel-buyers such as myself.
Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The new leader 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 “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and no British person wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter US citizens visiting this town, least of all working in petrol stations or other places.
Second in line at last. After an elderly lady engaged in a lengthy struggle with her shopping cart, her food items, her handbag and her loyalty card. The process dragged on. When she was done, she too got told a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to check for that thing as they gaze at you, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to say.
I just had to settle for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, which amounts to the same thing – as she gazed directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and told me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.
