Addressing the Checkout Assistant That Made Me Absolutely Without Words – My Hat's Off to You
It was a weekend morning, and I found myself in a foul mood, filling up my mum’s car. The location was a typical gas station that doubles as a supermarket, so you run the risk of joining a queue customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to occur when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Dreadful.
Fourth in line I stood in the queue. Just one cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out to her presence. When the faffer at the first position had finally paid for his Viakal, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. I wondered if she could even be a supporter in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for people who hold up simple fuel-buyers such as myself.
Advancing next, now third in line. The person ahead of the queue discharged her fuel-only transaction with impressive quickness. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and no British person wishes anyone a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. You don’t get many Americans frequenting this area, certainly not working in petrol stations or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a lengthy struggle with her basket, her purchases, her wallet and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. Once completed, the woman also was wished to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to see if she did that thing as they gaze at you, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.
Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and told me to have a great day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.
