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This occurred on a day of rest, and I felt grumpy enough, filling up my mum’s car. The location was one of those petrol stations that also functions as a convenience store, so you run the risk of ending up in line people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to happen when the sole aim is to get gasoline and leave. Awful.

My position was fourth in the waiting line. Just one cashier operating, a youthful clerk. Something stood out about her. Once the slowpoke at the head of the line had completed payment for his purchases, his pastry, and his box of eggs, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him to have a great day. Odd. Perhaps I’d misheard, or possibly she uttered it and used a mocking tone. The thought crossed my mind if she could even be a supporter in the war on delays, echoing my disdain for those who delay straightforward customers like me.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of the queue finished pumping gas with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” In fact, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. A stateside native? At this location? She had the accent, and few locals wishes anyone those exact words, or even just a nice day. Quite out of place. Rarely does one encounter people from America frequenting this area, least of all working in petrol stations or elsewhere.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper engaged in a protracted effort with her shopping cart, her purchases, her wallet and her membership pass. This took an eternity. When she was done, she too was wished an excellent day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke to her, to observe that thing their typical stare, without a smile, and reply with genuine earnest: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or an impersonation of it, that equates to identical in effect – as she gazed me right in the eye, to my very core, and wished me to have a great day. It improved my mood. Beneficial indeed.