In Southern airports, it's becoming common for cashiers to say "Have a blessed day" instead of traditional farewells like goodbye or thank you. This shift in greeting can feel overwhelming, as if one is being forcefully subjected to religious sentiment. The author expresses discomfort with these interactions, likening it to an involuntary application of a strong, unwanted fragrance.
This humorous observation highlights the clash between personal preference and socially expected niceties. The author fears this trend might make him conform to styles he finds unappealing, such as wearing ties with short-sleeved shirts, indicating a resistance to the pervasive culture of enforced cheerfulness linked to spirituality.