🔗 Share this article

This occurred on a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, filling up the family car. It was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a grocery store, which often leads of joining a queue people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to happen when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Dreadful.

My position was fourth among those waiting. A single cashier operating, a female attendant. A peculiar quality to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the first position had at last settled for his purchases, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was an ally in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for those who delay people just getting gas including me.

Advancing next, to third in the queue. The new leader of the queue finished pumping gas with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and no British person tells people those exact words, or simply a good day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

I was second now. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a right old battle with her carryall, her groceries, her wallet and her membership pass. The process dragged on. When she was done, she too received the wish an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark in her direction, to observe that response when they look at you, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to express.

In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, deep into my soul, and bid me to have a great day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.