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This occurred on a weekend morning, and I found myself in a foul mood, topping off my mother's vehicle. This was a common fuel stop that doubles as a supermarket, so you run the risk of ending up in line shoppers with carts of somewhat expensive items. A terrible fate to happen when the sole aim is to pay for some fuel. Awful.

My position was fourth among those waiting. There was only employee working, a young woman. Something stood out to her presence. When the faffer at the head of the line had at last settled for his purchases, a baked snack, and his box of eggs, I could have sworn overhearing the cashier tell him an excellent day. Strange. Maybe it was a mistake, or maybe she did say it and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was an ally in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay simple fuel-buyers such as myself.

Advancing next, now third in line. The new leader of our group finished pumping gas with impressive quickness. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. Someone from the US? At this location? She had the accent, and few locals says to others such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. You don’t get people from America frequenting this area, and definitely not employed at gas stations or elsewhere.

Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a lengthy struggle with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her membership pass. The process dragged on. Once completed, she as well was wished an excellent day. Definitely from the US. I might have verified it by making a witty remark to her, to check for that reaction as they gaze at you, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a funny comment to express.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a mimicry of sincerity, essentially the same as no different – as she gazed me right in the eye, to my very core, and told me an awesome day. It improved my mood. A positive experience.