Addressing the Cashier That Left Me Completely Without Words – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I felt sufficiently irritable, topping off the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a supermarket, so you run the risk of waiting behind customers carrying goods of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to happen when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.
My position was fourth in the queue. There was only employee working, a female attendant. A peculiar quality to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had finally paid for his purchases, his pastry, and some breakfast items, I could have sworn that I heard the cashier wish him to have a great day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or perhaps she spoke and used a mocking tone. I pondered if she might actually be a supporter in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for those who delay simple fuel-buyers including me.
Advancing next, now third in line. The new leader of our line finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. Once more it happened: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and hardly anyone here says to others such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Quite out of place. You don’t get US citizens frequenting this area, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or other places.
Now I stood second. After an elderly lady embroiled in a protracted effort with her carryall, her purchases, her wallet and her rewards card. It went on for ever. Once completed, she as well got told to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious in her direction, to check for that response when they look at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to say.
I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, that equates to the same thing – as she gazed directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and wished me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.
