To the Cashier Who Made Me Totally Wordless – Kudos to You

It was a weekend morning, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. This was a common fuel stop that also functions as a supermarket, so you run the risk of waiting behind people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to unfold when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Dreadful.

I was fourth among those waiting. Just one employee working, a young woman. There was something unusual in her demeanor. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for his purchases, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for those who delay simple fuel-buyers like me.

Taking a step forward, now third in line. The person ahead of our group finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person says to others a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter people from America knocking around Stourbridge, least of all working in petrol stations or other places.

Now I stood second. After an elderly lady engaged in a lengthy struggle with her shopping cart, her groceries, her handbag and her membership pass. The process dragged on. Once completed, she too received the wish to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. I might have verified it by making a witty remark in her direction, to observe that reaction their typical stare, unsmilingly, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to express.

Ultimately, I accepted the genuine warmth – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to the same thing – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and wished me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.

Alexandra James
Alexandra James

Award-winning investigative journalist with over 15 years of experience covering political and social issues across Europe.