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It was a weekend morning, and I was in a foul mood, filling up my mother's vehicle. It was one of those petrol stations that operates as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to unfold when all you want is to pay for some fuel. Awful.

Fourth in line I stood in the waiting line. There was only employee working, a youthful clerk. There was something unusual to her presence. When the faffer at the first position had finally paid for his purchases, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me that I heard the cashier tell him to have a great day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a comrade in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down straightforward customers like me.

I moved up, to third in the queue. The next shopper of our group finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Once more it happened: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? Here in Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person tells people a wonderful day, or merely a pleasant day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find US citizens visiting this town, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or elsewhere.

I was second now. After an elderly lady engaged in a right old battle with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. After she finished, she too got told a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to see if she did that response their typical stare, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to say.

Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or a mimicry of sincerity, which amounts to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, piercingly, and bid me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.