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This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I felt in a foul mood, topping off my mother's vehicle. It was a common fuel stop that also functions as a supermarket, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to occur when all you want is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.

My position was fourth among those waiting. Just one employee working, a youthful clerk. There was something unusual in her demeanor. When the faffer at the first position had at last settled for a cleaning product, his pastry, and some breakfast items, I was certain that I heard the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Strange. Perhaps I’d misheard, or maybe she did say it and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was an ally in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas like me.

I moved up, now third in line. The new leader of our group finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person says to others such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, least of all working in petrol stations or anywhere else.

Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper dealing with a right old battle with her shopping cart, her food items, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. After she finished, she as well was wished an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke to her, to see if she did that reaction their typical stare, without a smile, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to say.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, which amounts to no different – with which she looked me right in the eye, piercingly, and bid me a wonderful day. It improved my mood. It was a good thing.