🔗 Share this article

This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I was grumpy enough, filling up my mother's vehicle. The location was a typical gas station that also functions as a grocery store, which often leads of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to happen when the sole aim is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.

I was fourth among those waiting. Just one person serving, a female attendant. There was something unusual about her. After the ditherer at the front of the queue had finally paid for his purchases, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I was certain overhearing the cashier bid him to have a great day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and was being sarcastic. I wondered if she might actually be a comrade in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers like me.

Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our line 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”. A stateside native? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find US citizens knocking around Stourbridge, and definitely not working in petrol stations or other places.

I was second now. After an elderly lady embroiled in a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her groceries, her purse and her membership pass. The process dragged on. When she was done, the woman also was wished an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark at the cashier, to observe that thing their typical stare, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to utter.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, that equates to identical in effect – with which she looked directly into my eyes, to my very core, and bid me an awesome day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.