Every so often I get a really nice “Racoon Report” from my friends over at Seesmic.  The Racoon Report is nothing more than a old school e-newsletter updating seesmic-land with community news, updates, and plugs for various changes to the service, etc.

What was in the latest edition was striking though.  Here’s the section that got me thinking (especially the part in bold):

One of the most powerful things about Seesmic is just how close to real life it is. In our first year we have shared everything from birthdays and holidays to job losses, political conversations and even cooked dinners. Late last week we experienced a painful loss – the death of a friend and vibrant member of our community, Craig Manganello.

During his time on Seesmic, Craig struggled with serious health issues that relegated him to his home. But through Seesmic he continued making music, and friends, all around the world. Craig went into the hospital early last week for surgery to address his latest health issues. Unfortunately there were complications from the surgery and he passed away Thursday night.

While Craig may no longer be with us, the digital footprint he left behind lives on. We were proud to know him and mourn his passing.

If you’re reading this post, there’s a good chance you have a “digital footprint”.  Perhaps the most important question is whether you’re proud of it (or embarrassed), and in addition, whether it’s a footprint of value (the eternal one especially).

In my quest to not waste my time (because it’s extremely limited) a recent gut-check that’s been kicking into high gear is whether I’m using it (my time) the most effectively.  Andy Stanley’s book “The Best Question Ever” has also added to my gut-checkage.

Are you leaving valuable digital footprints, ones that may impact future generations?  Obviously Craig left a visible impact on the Seesmic community; are we doing the same in ours?

Here’s another great article today from Mashable that discusses our social footprint after we die as well.