Addressing the Checkout Assistant That Left Me Absolutely Without Words – Kudos to You
It was a weekend morning, and I was in a foul mood, filling up my mother's vehicle. This was a typical gas station that operates as a grocery store, so you run the risk of ending up in line customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to unfold when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.
My position was fourth in the waiting line. There was only employee working, a female attendant. A peculiar quality in her demeanor. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for his Viakal, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier tell him to have a great day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be an ally in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers like me.
Advancing next, now third in line. The next shopper of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and hardly anyone here says to others such a cheerful phrase, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter many Americans frequenting this area, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.
I was second now. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a right old battle with her shopping cart, her food items, her handbag and her membership pass. It went on for ever. Once completed, she as well got told an excellent day. Clearly an American. I might have verified it by cracking a joke to her, to observe that reaction their typical stare, without a smile, and say with absolute sincerity: “That’s really funny.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.
In the end, I embraced the genuine warmth – or an impersonation of it, essentially the same as identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, deep into my soul, and told me to have a great day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.
