Addressing the Store Clerk That Made Me Absolutely Speechless – Kudos to You
This occurred on a day of rest, and I felt sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. This was a typical gas station that doubles as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to occur when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Dreadful.
My position was fourth among those waiting. There was only cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. After the ditherer at the front of the queue had completed payment for his purchases, his pastry, and some breakfast items, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him a wonderful day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a comrade in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for those who delay people just getting gas such as myself.
Advancing next, now third in line. The person ahead of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and few locals wishes anyone those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find many Americans visiting this town, and definitely not working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper engaged in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her groceries, her wallet and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. After she finished, the woman also was wished to have a fantastic day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke at the cashier, to check for that reaction as they gaze at you, stoically, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to express.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or an impersonation of it, that equates to no different – with which she looked straight at me, to my very core, and bid me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.
