Addressing the Cashier That Made Me Absolutely Wordless – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I felt sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. This was one of those petrol stations that operates as a convenience store, so you run the risk of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to occur when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
My position was fourth among those waiting. A single cashier operating, a female attendant. A peculiar quality to her presence. When the faffer at the head of the line had finally paid for his purchases, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I could have sworn that I heard the cashier wish him a wonderful day. Strange. Perhaps I’d misheard, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. I wondered if she could even be an ally in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay people just getting gas including me.
Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our group finished pumping gas with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” To be precise, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? In Stourbridge? She had the accent, and few locals says to others those exact words, or even just a nice day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter many Americans visiting this town, and definitely not employed at gas stations or anywhere else.
Now I stood second. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a protracted effort with her basket, her purchases, her wallet and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. When she was done, the woman also got told an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to observe that thing as they gaze at you, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, that equates to the same thing – with which she looked me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and bid me an awesome day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.
