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It was a day of rest, and I felt in a foul mood, topping off the family car. The location was a typical gas station that also functions as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue customers carrying goods of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to unfold when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.

Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. A single person serving, a youthful clerk. Something stood out to her presence. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier wish him a wonderful day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was an ally in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for those who delay straightforward customers like me.

Advancing next, to third in the queue. The person ahead of our group 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”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here says to others those exact words, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find US citizens visiting this town, and definitely not working in petrol stations or anywhere else.

I was second now. After an elderly lady engaged in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her food items, her wallet and her membership pass. The process dragged on. When she was done, she as well was wished to have a fantastic day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by cracking a joke at the cashier, to observe that response 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 heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to no different – while she stared straight at me, to my very core, and bid me to have a great day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.