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This occurred on a Sunday morning, and I was in a foul mood, refueling my mum’s car. The location was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of waiting behind customers carrying goods of pricey provisions. A terrible fate to unfold when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Terrible.

My position was fourth among those waiting. A single person serving, a young woman. There was something unusual in her demeanor. When the faffer at the first position had finally paid for a cleaning product, his pastry, and some breakfast items, I was certain overhearing the cashier tell him an excellent day. Unusual. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I wondered if she might actually be a supporter in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for people who hold up people just getting gas such as myself.

Taking a step forward, to third in the queue. The next shopper of our group finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. An American? At this location? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person says to others such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Very rare. You don’t get people from America visiting this town, least of all working in petrol stations or elsewhere.

Now I stood second. Behind a poor older woman dealing with a right old battle with her carryall, her food items, her wallet and her membership pass. The process dragged on. After she finished, she as well received the wish an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. I might have verified it by cracking a joke to her, to see if she did that response as they gaze at you, stoically, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to utter.

Ultimately, I accepted the heartfelt tone – or a mimicry of sincerity, that equates to no different – with which she looked straight at me, to my very core, and told me to have a great day. I felt better for it. A positive experience.