For the Cashier That Left Me Completely Speechless – My Hat's Off to You
This occurred on a day of rest, and I felt in a foul mood, topping off my mum’s car. It was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a grocery store, so you run the risk of joining a queue people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to unfold when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
My position was fourth in the queue. A single employee working, a young woman. A peculiar quality to her presence. After the ditherer at the head of the line had finally paid for his Viakal, his pastry, and some breakfast items, I was certain overhearing the cashier tell him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and used a mocking tone. I pondered if she might actually be a comrade in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay straightforward customers such as myself.
Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our line completed her gasoline purchase with impressive quickness. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “have a wonderful day”. A stateside native? At this location? Her tone suggested it, and few locals says to others a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. Rarely does one encounter many Americans visiting this town, and definitely not employed at gas stations or other places.
Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper dealing with a right old battle with her shopping cart, her purchases, her purse and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, the woman also got told an excellent day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke in her direction, to see if she did that reaction their typical stare, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, which amounts to no different – as she gazed directly into my eyes, to my very core, and wished me an awesome day. It improved my mood. A positive experience.
