I have observed some things I believe are strong contributing factors. Whether you agree or not, I think you'll find that one solution I offer here will work regardless. So follow my musings for a moment. I've noticed that it's easy to focus on faults. They're usually even eager to join the chorus.
Bad news travels fast, and so does malicious gossip.
We absorb criticism and let in the pain, but have trouble receiving praise and appreciation. I'm willing to bet that the wonderful qualities that are shared with you about someone else don't often get back to them, and they probably don't get direct positive feedback any more than you do. I believe we have a real need to express the full spectrum of our feelings about how we see others, but need to do it in a way that doesn't threaten our comfort, or risk conflict. It can even be embarrassing to give positive feedback to someone, especially if they are embarrassed receiving it. Our communication with each other usually falls in the middle.