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This occurred on a day of rest, and I felt sufficiently irritable, topping off the family car. It was a typical gas station that operates as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line shoppers with carts of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to happen when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Dreadful.

My position was fourth in the queue. There was only cashier operating, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. After the ditherer at the front of the queue had finally paid for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, It seemed to me that I heard the cashier wish him to have a great day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I wondered if she could even be a supporter in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay straightforward customers including me.

Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The new leader of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “have a wonderful day”. A stateside native? In Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or merely a pleasant day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find many Americans visiting this town, least of all employed at gas stations or anywhere else.

Second in line at last. After an elderly lady embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her rewards card. The process dragged on. After she finished, she as well got told an excellent day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to see if she did that reaction as they gaze at you, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to say.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, essentially the same as no different – with which she looked me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and bid me an awesome day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.