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This occurred on a day of rest, and I was in a foul mood, filling up my mum’s car. It was a typical gas station that doubles as a supermarket, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. It's an awful situation to happen when the sole aim is to complete a simple refueling. Dreadful.

I was fourth in the queue. Just one employee working, a young woman. A peculiar quality about her. Once the slowpoke at the first position had at last settled for his Viakal, his pastry, and his box of eggs, It seemed to me overhearing the cashier wish him to have a great day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. I wondered if perhaps she was a supporter in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas like me.

Taking a step forward, now third in line. The new leader of our line finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “have a wonderful day”. A stateside native? In Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and hardly anyone here tells people a wonderful day, or even just a nice day. Highly unusual. Rarely does one encounter US citizens frequenting this area, least of all employed at gas stations or anywhere else.

Second in line at last. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her carryall, her groceries, her purse and her loyalty card. It went on for ever. When she was done, the woman also was wished an excellent day. Clearly an American. I could have confirmed it by saying something hilarious in her direction, to see if she did that response when they look at you, stoically, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of anything hilarious to say.

Ultimately, I accepted for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, which amounts to identical in effect – while she stared directly into my eyes, deep into my soul, and wished me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.