To the Checkout Assistant Who Made Me Completely Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
It was a weekend morning, and I found myself in a foul mood, topping off my mum’s car. The location was a typical gas station that doubles as a convenience store, so you run the risk of ending up in line customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to happen when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.
Fourth in line I stood in the queue. Just one cashier operating, a youthful clerk. There was something unusual in her demeanor. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and some breakfast items, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I wondered if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for those who delay simple fuel-buyers such as myself.
I moved up, now third in line. The next shopper of our group completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. Once more it happened: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? At this location? She had the accent, and few locals says to others such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, certainly not employed at gas stations or other places.
I was second now. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her groceries, her purse and her rewards card. The process dragged on. Once completed, the woman also was wished a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke in her direction, to observe that thing as they gaze at you, stoically, and say with absolute sincerity: “That’s really funny.” Yet no idea came of a jest to say.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and told me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.
