Addressing the Store Clerk Who Left Me Absolutely Speechless – My Hat's Off to You
It was a day of rest, and I found myself grumpy enough, filling up my mum’s car. This was a typical gas station that operates as a convenience store, so you run the risk of ending up in line shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to occur when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Awful.
I was fourth among those waiting. A single cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. After the ditherer at the head of the line had completed payment for a cleaning product, his pastry, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn that I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Odd. Perhaps I’d misheard, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I pondered if she could even be a comrade in my battle with dithering, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers including me.
Taking a step forward, now third in line. The next shopper of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and few locals tells people a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. You don’t get many Americans visiting this town, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.
I was second now. Following a senior shopper dealing with a lengthy struggle with her shopping cart, her purchases, her purse and her loyalty card. This took an eternity. Once completed, she as well got told to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious in her direction, to see if she did that thing as they gaze at you, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to express.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or an impersonation of it, that equates to identical in effect – as she gazed me right in the eye, piercingly, and told me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.