As always, Mary, it depends on where it is said. I agree with you that more clarity becomes more effective, especially if you are managing large groups of people. What is "like family" is a great question and the bit about carrying each other's secrets or being in some sort of insider society with untold rules is NOT conducive to creating a great work environment. I also believe that so many of us have a negative perspective of the words "work" and "workplace", "colleagues", "team" and such that they are almost seen as nasty and "family" is meant to be more benevolent. I love what you are saying here. And I would also like to see leaders build up the significance of work as an expression of who we are in the world and a way to make a difference!