Negativity finds its level

When I began working at Strictly Organic, there were two conspicuous features of the atmosphere: excessive negative gossip and an aloof ownership.

Neither Richard nor Rhonda complimented anybody, ever. They were gracious and genteel, but they never commented on anybody's work in a positive way that I ever heard.

There was one exception: a text message to myself and another baker in which Rhonda said that the cookies for the symphony looked great. This was rather pro-forma, and somewhat obligatory considering that the symphony is a prestigious customer.

Aside from that one incident, I never did hear an encouraging word for any employee. The only other compliment I ever witnessed was when Rhonda told me that she regretted firing me.