Addressing the Checkout Assistant Who Left Me Completely Without Words – Kudos to You
The scene was a Sunday morning, and I found myself grumpy enough, topping off my mum’s car. The location was a common fuel stop that also functions as a grocery store, which often leads of waiting behind shoppers with carts of slightly overpriced groceries. A terrible fate to happen when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.
Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. Just one cashier operating, a female attendant. There was something unusual to her presence. After the ditherer at the head of the line had completed payment for his purchases, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I was certain I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was an ally in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for those who delay simple fuel-buyers including me.
I moved up, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our line completed her gasoline purchase with impressive quickness. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? At this location? She had the accent, and few locals says to others a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. You don’t get US citizens visiting this town, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or other places.
Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a right old battle with her basket, her groceries, her wallet and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, she too received the wish a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke to her, to check for that thing as they gaze at you, stoically, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of a jest to utter.
In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, piercingly, and bid me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.
