How Do You Know If You're Part Of The Solution?

I've not had many words of late, which you could probably work out from the lack of blog posts, podcasts Facebook updates and even tweets. Most of my time has been consumed with work and volunteering but I've been spending a lot of time reflecting and thinking about what impact I'm having on the world and how to ensure it is a positive one.

As a child, I was convinced that I was going to work in a school.

As I got older, my plans became more firm. I would teach Religious Studies, History or English in a Secondary School and whilst I would never be the cool teacher, and would probably be the one that caused the department head the most trouble (some personality traits are hardwired and impossible to change), I did think that I would make a difference to students lives, as many of my teachers had to mine.

Am I making a positive difference to the world like I wanted to?

Don't get me wrong, I love the job I have, it is in a school and I'm 100% certain that I wouldn't swap it to be a teacher even if I could go back in time to make changes.

However, the impact I have on the world is different to the one I imagined.

Yes, I volunteer with Rainbows, Brownies and until recently my Church youth group and I think I'm making a difference there. The young people and I have a connection, we are able to joke with each other, we are able to share stories and I believe that they are becoming better human beings but is that due to anything I'm doing?

Am I'm making as positive an influence on the world as I could be making, or even as I should be making?

Am I reducing my carbon footprint? Am I recycling enough? Am I taking enough care to ensure that the needy around me are looked after?

Am I supporting my children and husband in the ways that they need? Am I there for my family and friends and those that I just pass in the street?

Am I part of the solution to the problems in the world or am I the cause of them?

How do you know if you're part of the solution?