Addressing the Store Clerk That Made Me Totally Wordless – My Hat's Off to You

This occurred on a day of rest, and I found myself grumpy enough, refueling the family car. It was a typical gas station that also functions as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to occur when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Dreadful.

My position was fourth in the waiting line. A single employee working, a young woman. Something stood out to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had at last settled for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier bid him to have a great day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or possibly she uttered it and used a mocking tone. I pondered if perhaps she was a supporter in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for people who hold up simple fuel-buyers like me.

I moved up, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. A stateside native? At this location? Her tone suggested it, and few locals wishes anyone those exact words, or even just a nice day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find US citizens visiting this town, and definitely not working in petrol stations or anywhere else.

I was second now. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a protracted effort with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her membership pass. The process dragged on. When she was done, she as well got told to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark in her direction, to check for that reaction when they look at you, unsmilingly, and say with absolute sincerity: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to say.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, which amounts to identical in effect – as she gazed me right in the eye, piercingly, and wished me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.

Susan Baker
Susan Baker

Elara is a seasoned betting analyst with a passion for helping others make informed wagers and enjoy responsible gaming.