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The scene was a day of rest, and I found myself sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. It was a common fuel stop that also functions as a convenience store, which often leads of waiting behind shoppers with carts of slightly overpriced groceries. This is a dreadful thing to occur when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Awful.

My position was fourth among those waiting. A single person serving, a youthful clerk. A peculiar quality to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had completed payment for his purchases, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Unusual. Maybe it was a mistake, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers such as myself.

Advancing next, to third in the queue. The new leader of the queue finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and few locals tells people a wonderful day, or simply a good day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find US citizens frequenting this area, least of all holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

I was second now. Following a senior shopper embroiled in a right old battle with her carryall, her groceries, her wallet and her rewards card. The process dragged on. When she was done, she too was wished a wonderful day. Clearly an American. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke to her, to observe that response when they look at you, stoically, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a jest to utter.

In the end, I embraced for the absolute sincerity – or a performance of it, that equates to identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, to my very core, and bid me an awesome day. My spirits lifted. Beneficial indeed.