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The scene was a weekend morning, and I was sufficiently irritable, topping off my mother's vehicle. The location was a typical gas station that also functions as a grocery store, which often leads of ending up in line people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to occur when all you want is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.

Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. There was only person serving, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for a cleaning product, his pastry, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier tell him to have a great day. Strange. Perhaps I’d misheard, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was an ally in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down people just getting gas including me.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The new leader of our group finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and few locals wishes anyone those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter many Americans frequenting this area, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper dealing with a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her food items, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. After she finished, she as well was wished a wonderful day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by making a witty remark at the cashier, to check for that thing as they gaze at you, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to express.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, that equates to no different – while she stared me right in the eye, piercingly, and bid me to have a great day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.