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This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I was sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. This was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to happen when your only desire is to complete a simple refueling. Dreadful.

I was fourth in the waiting line. Just one employee working, a female attendant. Something stood out about her. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, It seemed to me I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I wondered if she might actually be a supporter in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay simple fuel-buyers like me.

Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The next shopper of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Again, the phrase came: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” In fact, it was “have a wonderful day”. Someone from the US? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone those exact words, or even just a nice day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, and definitely not employed at gas stations or elsewhere.

Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper engaged in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her food items, her handbag and her loyalty card. The process dragged on. After she finished, the woman also received the wish an excellent day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious to her, to observe that reaction when they look at you, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “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, essentially the same as identical in effect – while she stared me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and bid me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.