Addressing the Store Clerk That Left Me Totally Without Words – Kudos to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, refueling my mum’s car. This was a common fuel stop that operates as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to happen when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
Fourth in line I stood in the queue. There was only cashier operating, a youthful clerk. Something stood out in her demeanor. When the faffer at the first position had at last settled for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I was certain that I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. I pondered if she might actually be a comrade in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for people who hold up simple fuel-buyers including me.
Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The person ahead of our group completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? At this location? She had the accent, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter US citizens frequenting this area, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.
Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her groceries, her handbag and her rewards card. It went on for ever. After she finished, she as well received the wish to have a fantastic day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to see if she did that reaction when they look at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to express.
I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a mimicry of sincerity, that equates to identical in effect – with which she looked me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and bid me an awesome day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.
