You're re-describing the object in question using oversimplified, generalized terms to make it make it seem less significant/dramatic - the qualifier "random" a

You're re-describing the object in question using oversimplified, generalized terms to make it make it seem less significant/dramatic - the qualifier "random" as used here is a common hallmark of that style of sniping. It's certainly reasonable to disagree with the parent's opinion about the author's behavior, but this is a non-constructive, curt way to express it. Regardless, I don't think the word "appalled" is totally off base. The author's attitude and actions are highly destructive in our line of work. It has real, concrete consequences and should be rigorously discouraged. "Complaining about a work situation" is a broad category, and it can cover a lot of little cases that don't really matter, but this isn't one of that subset.