🔗 Share this article

It was a Sunday morning, and I was grumpy enough, refueling the family car. It was a common fuel stop that also functions as a grocery store, so you run the risk of waiting behind people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to occur when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.

I was fourth among those waiting. There was only cashier operating, a female attendant. A peculiar quality to her presence. When the faffer at the first position had finally paid for his purchases, his pastry, and a carton of eggs, It seemed to me I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a comrade in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for those who delay simple fuel-buyers such as myself.

I moved up, now third in line. The next shopper of our line finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and hardly anyone here says to others a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter people from America frequenting this area, least of all employed at gas stations or other places.

Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a protracted effort with her basket, her food items, her handbag and her rewards card. The process dragged on. After she finished, she too got told a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that reaction when they look at you, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to express.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as the same thing – while she stared me right in the eye, piercingly, and bid me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.