To the Checkout Assistant That Made Me Absolutely Without Words – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a weekend morning, and I was sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. The location was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a supermarket, which often leads of waiting behind people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. A terrible fate to occur when all you want is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.
I was fourth in the queue. There was only person serving, a female attendant. A peculiar quality to her presence. After the ditherer at the first position had at last settled for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier bid him an excellent day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. I pondered if she could even be a supporter in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for those who delay simple fuel-buyers including me.
I moved up, to third in the queue. The new leader of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and no British person wishes anyone a wonderful day, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, least of all working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. After an elderly lady embroiled in a protracted effort with her carryall, her food items, her purse and her rewards card. The process dragged on. After she finished, the woman also got told to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark to her, to check for that reaction their typical stare, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” Yet no idea came of a jest to say.
I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, that equates to no different – while she stared straight at me, piercingly, and told me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.
