Addressing the Store Clerk That Left Me Absolutely Speechless – Kudos to You

It was a Sunday morning, and I felt grumpy enough, filling up my mum’s car. It was a common fuel stop that doubles as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind shoppers with carts of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to occur when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.

My position was fourth in the queue. Just one person serving, a young woman. A peculiar quality to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had finally paid for his Viakal, his pastry, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. I pondered if she might actually be a supporter in my battle with dithering, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down people just getting gas like me.

Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our line finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. A stateside native? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and hardly anyone here tells people such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, and definitely not employed at gas stations or elsewhere.

I was second now. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a protracted effort with her carryall, her food items, her purse and her membership pass. The process dragged on. When she was done, she too received the wish a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark to her, to observe that response their typical stare, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That is quite humorous.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.

Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to the same thing – as she gazed me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and wished me an awesome day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.