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The scene was a Sunday morning, and I felt in a foul mood, topping off the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a convenience store, so you run the risk of waiting behind customers carrying goods of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to unfold when all you want is to get gasoline and leave. Dreadful.

My position was fourth among those waiting. A single person serving, a female attendant. Something stood out to her presence. Once the slowpoke at the front of the queue had at last settled for his purchases, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, I was certain overhearing the cashier tell him a wonderful day. Strange. Perhaps I’d misheard, or possibly she uttered it and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a supporter in my fight against faff, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down people just getting gas including me.

I moved up, to third in the queue. The new leader of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” No, actually, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? She had the accent, and few locals says to others such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Very rare. You don’t get US citizens visiting this town, and definitely not holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

Now I stood second. After an elderly lady embroiled in a protracted effort with her basket, her groceries, her wallet and her rewards card. The process dragged on. Once completed, she as well got told to have a fantastic day. Clearly an American. I might have verified it by cracking a joke in her direction, to observe that response when they look at you, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to say.

I just had to settle the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, essentially the same as no different – with which she looked me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and wished me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. A positive experience.