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This occurred on a day of rest, and I found myself in a foul mood, topping off the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that operates as a grocery store, meaning there's a chance of ending up in line people bearing baskets of slightly overpriced groceries. It's an awful situation to occur when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.

I was fourth among those waiting. There was only person serving, a female attendant. Something stood out to her presence. When the faffer at the head of the line had at last settled for a cleaning product, his sausage roll, and a carton of eggs, I could have sworn that I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or perhaps she spoke and meant it ironically. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was a supporter in my battle with dithering, reflecting my irritation for those who delay straightforward customers such as myself.

Taking a step forward, becoming the third customer. The new leader of our group discharged her fuel-only transaction with commendable speed. Once more it happened: “Wishing you a marvelous day.” To be precise, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. Someone from the US? In Stourbridge? The pronunciation indicated it, and no British person says to others such a cheerful phrase, or even just a nice day. Very rare. Rarely does one encounter US citizens visiting this town, certainly not holding jobs in fueling spots or anywhere else.

I was second now. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a right old battle with her basket, her purchases, her purse and her loyalty card. The process dragged on. After she finished, she too got told a wonderful day. Yes, American for sure. I might have verified it by making a witty remark at the cashier, to observe that reaction when they look at you, stoically, and say with absolute sincerity: “You are very amusing.” But I couldn’t think of a jest to say.

I just had to settle the genuine warmth – or a performance of it, which amounts to identical in effect – as she gazed straight at me, deep into my soul, and told me to have a great day. My spirits lifted. Beneficial indeed.