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The scene was a weekend morning, and I felt grumpy enough, topping off the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that operates as a supermarket, so you run the risk of ending up in line people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. It's an awful situation to happen when all you want is to complete a simple refueling. Awful.

I was fourth in the queue. A single cashier operating, a young woman. Something stood out about her. When the faffer at the head of the line had finally paid for his purchases, a baked snack, and some breakfast items, I was certain I heard the cashier bid him an excellent day. Odd. Maybe it was a mistake, or possibly she uttered it and meant it ironically. I wondered if she might actually be a supporter in my battle with dithering, echoing my disdain for individuals slowing down simple fuel-buyers including me.

Advancing next, becoming the third customer. The person ahead of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. And there it was again: “Have a wonderful day.” No, actually, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. A stateside native? At this location? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone such a cheerful phrase, or simply a good day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find many Americans knocking around Stourbridge, least of all employed at gas stations or elsewhere.

Now I stood second. Following a senior shopper dealing with a protracted effort with her carryall, her purchases, her purse and her membership pass. The process dragged on. Once completed, the woman also got told to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by cracking a joke at the cashier, to observe that response as they gaze at you, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of anything hilarious to utter.

In the end, I embraced the heartfelt tone – or a performance of it, which amounts to the same thing – with which she looked me right in the eye, deep into my soul, and wished me an awesome day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.