For the Store Clerk Who Left Me Totally Without Words – I Salute You

The scene was a Sunday morning, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off the family car. It was a typical gas station that operates as a grocery store, so you run the risk of ending up in line shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to happen when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.

My position was fourth in the waiting line. There was only employee working, a youthful clerk. There was something unusual in her demeanor. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had completed payment for his purchases, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him an excellent day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and was being sarcastic. I pondered if perhaps she was a comrade in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers such as myself.

Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The person ahead of our line completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and no British person wishes anyone a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find US citizens knocking around Stourbridge, certainly not employed at gas stations or elsewhere.

I was second now. After an elderly lady engaged in a right old battle with her shopping cart, her purchases, her handbag and her rewards card. It went on for ever. Once completed, she as well received the wish an excellent day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious in her direction, to observe that response as they gaze at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to say.

I just had to settle for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, essentially the same as no different – with which she looked straight at me, piercingly, and told me to have a great day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.