Seven

Eventually I left the Capitol.

The negatives outweighed the positives: A nice boss who wanted to pay me more but kept getting denied by rules - even as they were trying to address equal pay. An unwillingness to participate in the after-hours fraternizing, overly friendly behavior, ignoring indiscretions by people in power. I genuinely valued my work experience in the Capitol and am grateful for the path it has set my career on.

Sometimes, I wish I still worked in the building, but the firm I work for now continually impresses me with the integrity, character and reputation that they display.

I am relieved to know that not all workplaces are like the Capitol.