Don't Stop at Shangri-La

A Love as Strong as Iron

KL Biggerstaff, Department Secretary for Arts and Sciences at Western Iowa Tech Community College, shares a voicemail from her mom, Debbie Hawk. Debbie is KL's best friend, partner in laughter, and the other half of countless inside jokes like being the "World's Best Ironer." The message is short, but it holds everything—joy, connection, and the comfort of knowing someone loves you so completely.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

I Still Feel All of His Love

Angie Sewalson, Development Associate for Empowered Network, shares a voice message from her grandfather, an airplane mechanic, pilot, and one of her closest friends. During his short battle with cancer, they stayed connected through voice messages since he did not like texting. She drove alone to the Black Hills for one final weekend with him, surrounded by memories of summers spent together, races he cheered her through, and rides across the potato fields he loved. In one photo, her stepmom wrote, “Grandpa is sending you a hug.” For Angie, that’s what his voice still is, a steady presence, a reminder of love that endures long after goodbye.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

Vibrating on a Higher Level

Holly Meis shares a voicemail her son, David, left giving thanks for boxes that were donated by one of his students' parents to his classroom. It’s an ordinary moment that reveals his extraordinary warmth. David loved his students, he loved the theater, and he loved performing. His voice reminds Holly of the joy he carried into every role—on stage, in the classroom, and in life.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

Yalla Means Let's Go

Maryam Elgoni shares a recording of her mother, Howayda Farah, reciting the Islamic prayer for travel. Maryam listens to her mother recite the prayer every time she travels. Every word carries protection and love, and each breath is a reminder of the quiet power of a mother’s love.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

Don't Stop at Shangri-La

For Sarah Deck, the sounds of “Don’t Stop” by the band WookieFoot, played on the bagpipes at Shangri-La Festival, are more than music. It’s laughter drifting across campfires, the hum of voices that feel like home, and the rhythm of friendships that have lasted for years. Each note carries a memory of joy, belonging, and the reminder that some songs never really end.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.