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This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I found myself grumpy enough, topping off my mother's vehicle. The location was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of joining a queue people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to occur when the sole aim is to get gasoline and leave. Terrible.

I was fourth in the queue. A single person serving, a female attendant. Something stood out in her demeanor. When the faffer at the front of the queue had at last settled for a cleaning product, a baked snack, and a carton of eggs, I was certain overhearing the cashier bid him to have a great day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be a supporter in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas including me.

Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The next shopper of our line completed her gasoline purchase with commendable speed. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. Someone from the US? At this location? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here says to others those exact words, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter many Americans visiting this town, certainly not holding jobs in fueling spots or other places.

Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a right old battle with her carryall, her groceries, her handbag and her rewards card. The process dragged on. After she finished, she as well was wished a wonderful day. Yes, American for sure. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to see if she did that thing when they look at you, stoically, and say with absolute sincerity: “That’s really funny.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to say.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as the same thing – with which she looked me right in the eye, piercingly, and wished me an awesome day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.