For the Cashier That Made Me Completely Speechless – Kudos to You
This occurred on a weekend morning, and I felt grumpy enough, filling up my mum’s car. The location was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a supermarket, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to happen when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.
I was fourth in the waiting line. A single cashier operating, a young woman. There was something unusual about her. When the faffer at the front of the queue had finally paid for a cleaning product, his sausage roll, and some breakfast items, I was certain overhearing the cashier bid him a wonderful day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be an ally in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers like me.
I moved up, to third in the queue. The new leader of the queue finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and few locals wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter US citizens visiting this town, certainly not working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
Now I stood second. After an elderly lady engaged in a protracted effort with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her membership pass. This took an eternity. Once completed, she as well was wished an excellent day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to check for that reaction as they gaze at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to express.
Ultimately, I accepted the genuine warmth – or an impersonation of it, that equates to the same thing – while she stared me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and bid me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. Beneficial indeed.
