For the Store Clerk That Left Me Totally Speechless – My Hat's Off to You
It was a weekend morning, and I was in a foul mood, topping off my mum’s car. This was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to happen when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Awful.
I was fourth in the waiting line. There was only person serving, a young woman. There was something unusual to her presence. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for his Viakal, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier wish him an excellent day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was a comrade in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down straightforward customers including me.
Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The next shopper of our line discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? At this location? She had the accent, and hardly anyone here says to others a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Quite out of place. Rarely does one encounter US citizens frequenting this area, and definitely not working in petrol stations or other places.
I was second now. After an elderly lady dealing with a lengthy struggle with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her membership pass. It went on for ever. Once completed, she as well got told a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious to her, to check for that thing when they look at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted the genuine warmth – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – with which she looked straight at me, to my very core, and wished me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. A positive experience.
