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It was a weekend morning, and I was sufficiently irritable, refueling my mother's vehicle. This was a typical gas station that doubles as a grocery store, so you run the risk of joining a queue shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to happen when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.

Fourth in line I stood among those waiting. There was only person serving, a female attendant. There was something unusual in her demeanor. When the faffer at the head of the line had finally paid for his purchases, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn that I heard the cashier wish him to have a great day. Strange. Perhaps I’d misheard, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I pondered if perhaps she was a supporter in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down straightforward customers such as myself.

I moved up, to third in the queue. The next shopper of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here says to others those exact words, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find people from America visiting this town, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

Now I stood second. After an elderly lady engaged in a right old battle with her basket, her purchases, her handbag and her membership pass. This took an eternity. After she finished, she too got told an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke in her direction, to see if she did that response as they gaze at you, without a smile, and say with absolute sincerity: “That is quite humorous.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to express.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and bid me an awesome day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.