Addressing the Checkout Assistant That Left Me Completely Speechless – My Hat's Off to You
The scene was a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, refueling the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a grocery store, so you run the risk of joining a queue customers carrying goods of slightly overpriced groceries. It's an awful situation to unfold when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.
I was fourth in the waiting line. There was only employee working, a young woman. A peculiar quality in her demeanor. Once the slowpoke at the first position had finally paid for a cleaning product, his pastry, and a carton of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be a supporter in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for people who hold up simple fuel-buyers including me.
I moved up, to third in the queue. The new leader of the queue finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? In Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and few locals wishes anyone a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter people from America frequenting this area, least of all working in petrol stations or elsewhere.
Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper dealing with a protracted effort with her carryall, her food items, her wallet and her rewards card. This took an eternity. After she finished, she as well was wished an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that thing as they gaze at you, without a smile, and say with absolute sincerity: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to utter.
I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or an impersonation of it, that equates to no different – while she stared straight at me, piercingly, and bid me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.
