Pessimists like myself usually don't like being called that. Realist is a more accurate term. I mean, in reality, chances are that something undesirable will happen. Just look in the newspaper if you don't believe me. Realists are aware of the fact that the deck is stacked against them and don't live in some idealist fantasy world. A realist is always prepared for the worst, and therefore is not disappointed when it happens. If by some off chance something good does happen, a realist truly recognizes and appreciates it a lot more, because it is an unexpected surprise. Remember, "A smile makes a lousy umbrella".