For the Store Clerk That Made Me Absolutely Speechless – I Salute You
The scene was a day of rest, and I found myself in a foul mood, refueling the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that operates as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to occur when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.
I was fourth among those waiting. There was only employee working, a youthful clerk. Something stood out about her. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had finally paid for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I was certain that I heard the cashier tell him to have a great day. Odd. Perhaps I’d misheard, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I pondered if she might actually be a supporter in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down straightforward customers like me.
Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of the queue finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Once more it happened: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and few locals says to others such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find US citizens frequenting this area, certainly not working in petrol stations or elsewhere.
I was second now. Behind a poor older woman engaged in a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her purchases, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. After she finished, she too was wished a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious in her direction, to check for that thing their typical stare, stoically, and say with absolute sincerity: “That is quite humorous.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to express.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, essentially the same as the same thing – as she gazed directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and bid me an awesome day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.
