Giving Birth or Burial?

The news is full of discussions on our carbon footprint. Tonight I'm thinking about my footprint on this life and the people in it. I'm not a volunteer. I'm not a blood donor, reading tutor or community server.

So what good am I? I don't hold a job outside the home. I haven't invented anything, built anything or contributed a great work of art to the world. I've raised a couple of great young men. I'm a friend. I thought I was a good wife and had always been proud of an enduring marriage. I was a daughter. To my second cousin Edie I was 'Dolly' I've either been fat or too thin depending on when and what parent you might have asked. I've been called generous, adorable, judgmental, selfish and sweet.

I have a much loved friend who is currently contemplating her worth. Especially to her husband. I understand this much better than she knows. I contemplate my worth a lot. And wonder like the famous Christmas movie what life would be like if I was dead.

So what is my footprint on my life? My worth? If I had been able to answer this at all this ability ended in '08. But it is time now, I think, to once again begin searching for these answers. Because I don't want someone else's actions to define me even by default.
I've helped some people. I've listened, talked, dished out sympathy, provided some ideas. I've cooked meals, bandaged knees, paid for lunches, paid for vet care and comforters.
I've held hands and made love. I've enjoyed books, music and new places. I've given birth and buried my parents. I've washed dishes, clothes, floors and small faces.
I've changed my outlook on a few things and am still up in the air on others. I've had some relationships.

What does all this add up to? Who is this person?