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The scene was a day of rest, and I was grumpy enough, filling up the family car. The location was a typical gas station that doubles as a convenience store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind people bearing baskets of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to unfold when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.

I was fourth among those waiting. A single employee working, a female attendant. There was something unusual about her. After the ditherer at the front of the queue had finally paid for his purchases, his sausage roll, and his box of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if she might actually be a comrade in the war on delays, reflecting my irritation for individuals slowing down straightforward customers such as myself.

I moved up, now third in line. The next shopper of our line finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. Once more it happened: “Have a wonderful day.” In fact, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? In Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here tells people those exact words, or simply a good day. Quite out of place. You don’t get US citizens frequenting this area, certainly not employed at gas stations or anywhere else.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her purchases, her handbag and her rewards card. This took an eternity. Once completed, she too was wished a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious at the cashier, to observe that thing their typical stare, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.

Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, to my very core, and told me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. It was a good thing.