Addressing the Store Clerk Who Left Me Totally Speechless – My Hat's Off to You
This occurred on a day of rest, and I was sufficiently irritable, refueling my mum’s car. It was a typical gas station that operates as a supermarket, which often leads of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to happen when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.
Fourth in line I stood among those waiting. There was only cashier operating, a youthful clerk. There was something unusual to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had at last settled for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier bid him a wonderful day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. I pondered if she might actually be an ally in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for those who delay people just getting gas such as myself.
Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The person ahead of our line finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here says to others those exact words, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. You don’t get many Americans visiting this town, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her food items, her handbag and her membership pass. This took an eternity. When she was done, she as well received the wish an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that thing as they gaze at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, that equates to no different – while she stared me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and wished me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. It was a good thing.
