"You're a pessimistic person!"
Perhaps, but that is subjective.
An awareness of global issues is not an indication of optimism or pessimism,
Perhaps I am optimistically trying to find positive solutions to negative issues that surround us.
I respect your opinion of me though, either way, regardless of its accuracy/inaccuracy of my intentions. I have been called a lot worse. lol ;)
On a side note though, about optimism/pessimism: Negative criticism shows a lot more room for improvement than positive praise. Therefore, one must consider the negative aspects of life in order to achieve its full positive potential.