The scene was a day of rest, and I found myself grumpy enough, refueling the family car. This was one of those petrol stations that operates as a supermarket, which often leads of waiting behind people bearing baskets of pricey provisions. It's an awful situation to unfold when your only desire is to get gasoline and leave. Awful.
I was fourth in the queue. There was only employee working, a female attendant. Something stood out in her demeanor. Once the slowpoke at the first position had completed payment for his Viakal, his pastry, and a carton of eggs, It seemed to me that I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Unusual. Perhaps I’d misheard, or perhaps she spoke and was being sarcastic. The thought crossed my mind if perhaps she was a supporter in my fight against faff, sharing my contempt for individuals slowing down straightforward customers including me.
I moved up, to third in the queue. The person ahead of the queue completed her gasoline purchase with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “I hope you have a fantastic day.” No, actually, it was “enjoy a truly great day”. Someone from the US? In Stourbridge? She had the accent, and few locals tells people a wonderful day, or merely a pleasant day. Highly unusual. It's uncommon to find US citizens knocking around Stourbridge, least of all employed at gas stations or other places.
I was second now. Following a senior shopper engaged in a protracted effort with her basket, her purchases, her wallet and her loyalty card. This took an eternity. When she was done, she as well got told a wonderful day. Definitely from the US. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious in her direction, to check for that reaction their typical stare, unsmilingly, and state very earnestly: “That’s really funny.” Yet no idea came of a funny comment to say.
I just had to settle for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, that equates to identical in effect – while she stared me right in the eye, to my very core, and bid me a wonderful day. My spirits lifted. It was a good thing.
A passionate local guide with over 10 years of experience in sharing Naples' hidden gems and rich history with travelers from around the world.
Casey Cox