Addressing the Store Clerk Who Left Me Absolutely Speechless – I Salute You
This occurred on a weekend morning, and I felt sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a convenience store, so you run the risk of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to unfold when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
My position was fourth in the waiting line. Just one person serving, a female attendant. Something stood out in her demeanor. When the faffer at the head of the line had completed payment for his Viakal, his pastry, and some breakfast items, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. I wondered if she could even be a supporter in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down straightforward customers like me.
Advancing next, now third in line. The new leader of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and few locals wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter US citizens visiting this town, certainly not working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
I was second now. After an elderly lady embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her purchases, her wallet and her membership pass. This took an eternity. Once completed, she too got told to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark at the cashier, to observe that thing when they look at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of anything hilarious to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, that equates to identical in effect – as she gazed directly into my eyes, piercingly, and wished me an awesome day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.