Shakin' The Salt

Some of my Midwest slang doesn't coincide with my husband's Alabama roots and vice versa. And the Northeast verbiage can sound like a foreign language to me! So when did I learn “Christianese” and use it with my friends who didn't understand.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

Not many have the privilege and honor of living to be 100. My sweet mother “Bootsie” was born in 1925 when Calvin Coolidge was president, lived through the depression, WWII, and so much more. Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

If you have battled pain or illness like I have for 25 years, you too may really become discouraged at times. Maybe you have been mad at God like I was. So what is the answer? Why doesn't God heal me?Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

We often hear the word ‘soul' spoken today but do we really know what it means? Are soul-mate, soul brother, soul music, and soul food even related? And what does any of that have to do with your soul?Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

Most people are shocked when they hear a professing Christian say that they hate Easter. I used to be shocked as well…until I became one who feels the same! I also used to be a C and E church goer, if that!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

Have you ever been betrayed by a friend? A co-worker? Your spouse or loved one? Maybe even a family? I have, and I don't know that we ever forget it, even if we forgive and move on with our lives.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

For two weeks we thought he was healed! Have you ever gotten your hopes up and then the rug is pulled out from under you again? Now he has to be Bud in the bubble for 40 sessions – for 2 hour each day!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

After 25 years of success in radio and TV, then beating cancer twice, a  former student of mine and a St. Louis legend, Brian Mckenna was killed by a car while he was crossing the street Saturday night!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

It seems ironic that two years ago my husband was healed of prostate cancer, and now my brother Duke was recently also diagnosed with the same. He asked everyone on his nightly Words of Encouragement to please pray.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

Have you ever wondered why young children are so carefree and eager to try new things, and then somehow by the teen years, that totally changes? Confidence has been replaced by self-consciousness. Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

Everyone needs to use the bathroom, but no one ever expects to see all blood! My poor husband had just gotten over two rounds of the flu, which was two years since his prostate cancer. ER here we come!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

When you go through life's various trials, do you ever wonder if you are somehow being “tested” to see if you make it? I know I have! As a retired high school teacher, I know that no one likes taking tests!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

I knew at Christmas that she was on hospice, and I knew she would be leaving us soon. But she looked so pretty, and so healthy and we chatted for hours. I just knew I would see her again…and I will!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper" https://saltandlightministry.com/

Everyone has disappointments from time to time. But what about the same disappointment time after time after time! This is the 25th year and 17th doctor to inform me they couldn't help with my chronic pain.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

This year I have decided to do something new. Instead of adding a resolution, I am resigning - getting rid of things that bog me down. Would you like to get rid of an attitude, an addiction, a habit?Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Not another weight loss resolution, right? Right! It is simply an extension or continuation of the resolution I first made when I was six or seven, on through my teen years, and up until now!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

For those of us who celebrate holidays in a BIG way, there comes a time when we must say, “Enough!” No more decorations, parties, singing and dancing, but time to get a little rest!  Right? Right!  Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Do you ever wish you could just turn off your brain and stop thinking, stop remembering, stop grieving, stop feeling, just stop dreading? We have both great and horrible memories, if only we could filter them!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

As long as we live, we add a number to our age every year. But even through the aches and pains and trials, we can still have JOY and enjoy every day. When we remain young at heart, each day is new!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Each year for my husband's birthday I try to think of something fun or unusual that we've never done. This year I found a train that runs between cities in Florida; and one stop was the Orlando Science Museum!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

We purposely wait until after Thanksgiving to put up Christmas decorations. My friends who began last September are almost finished and already in the Christmas Spirit. What if you are just not in the mood? Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

My husband and I often traveled overseas and would carry small gifts to give to the children of third world countries.  They were so grateful and respectful, unlike many children here, who have everything!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

We all go through times of trials and pain, but the key is to go through! We know there are ups and downs in life personally and professionally, but in the times of trials we have to remember it will get better – one way or another. Really it will!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

We all have loved ones either serving in the Armed Forces, or those who have served in the past. I was always so proud of my handsome dad, and this year I wrote this in honor of him…and all of your loved ones who served.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

My husband has always said that I am the queen of instant gratification. When we go out to eat I expect the food to be delivered within 5 minutes max. If I order an item from Amazon, I expect it to be there the next day. Patience is not my strong suit!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Why do we find it easy to pray for someone who asks us to pray for them, but often feel reluctant to go to others when we are the one who needs prayer? Not any more, I am asking you to pray for me!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

A friend who has become somewhat of a “recluse,” told me frankly, “I hate people.” She assured me she didn't mean me, but I had to wonder anyway! We all have times when we need to be alone… but always?Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

I used to think that I could not control the horrible thoughts in my mind. Things like anger, fear, worry, dread, lust and others used to control me…but not any longer. You too can change your mind.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

My dad's name is Milton; my brother's name is Milton, and my nephew's name is Milton. So is the new hurricane, Milton, headed our  way! We are still cleaning up from the last one, but we do not have to live in fear.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

The hurricane has passed for now, but we all know there will be more storms of all kinds, physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, financial, and in our relationships. How can we not worry and be anxious? Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

If you have ever had shingles you know how painful it can be! Our friend who does lawn service for a living has a terrible case on his side, back and ribs. Wow! Can we ever empathize! Been there!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

All of us face pain of some kind, at one time or another.  Like many, I live with chronic pain, yet choose to not dwell on it, just deal with it and pray. I hope this will encourage you today as I pray for you.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Two years after the horrific killings at the school in Columbine, the family of victim Cassie Bernall, wrote a book and toured to honor her last words. As a radio host then I was blessed to interview them.Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

The 2024 recipient of this Branson Film Festival Award was one of the easiest interviews I have ever done! We have so much in common and I can't wait for you to hear him…Jonathan Turner Smith! Congratulations!Support the showSupport our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Do you ever watch movies or television and think that you have a better story than that? Why not just do it now? Following is an interview with Deborah Watson of Branson who can tell you how to get it started!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

I hope you are blessed to have a life-long friend like mine – literally since we were babies! When I decided to do interviews for my podcasts, Lynne was the first to come to mind, and she was ready! Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Sentenced to Life for Sexual Assault (for two years) on a child under 12. The Education Board on which I serve has trainers who go into the classrooms and teach kids to tell someone if they have been molested. Thank God!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

I have been doing these podcasts for over five years. In the past, every time there has been a change in my life, it is because someone or some circumstance seemed to intervene. So it is now. Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

How will we ever make it through the elections in November? Will we still be friends with other parties or will we end up deleting half of our friends on social media? What does God have to say about it?Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

When we look back over our lives there were so many people who helped us in a myriad of ways. How many have you gone back to thank for the difference they made. I have several, and you to thank as well!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

True depression or despair often requires serious professional help. But what about those days when you just feel “down” or in a “funk”? I have Ten Ways to Help You Get Up When You're Down!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

For over five years I have posted a weekly podcast. This is the first time I didn't have a topic! So as a former speech teacher, I did what I taught –improvise! Three points, introduction and conclusion.Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

As we approach the 4th of July and consider our country, most of us, especially those over 50, would agree, this is not the America we knew. What can we do to make a change instead of just complaining?Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Most people have an idea of what “sin” is; but when one is mentioned in 30 scriptures and referenced in even more, wouldn't you think preachers would talk about it? I have never heard a sermon on gluttony!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

My Daddy said I was his best Father's Day Gift ever; but I am not sure he felt that way through my horrible teen years. This is a chapter I contributed from a book I am in called The Embrace of a Father.Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

My older sister Donna has always been my hero and my best friend. Recently her husband passed away and she also has need of a new hip, new knees and a renewing of her mind. I want to see her joy restored!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

When people ask me where is God in the midst of all that is happening politically, religiously, financially, socially, or anything else, I know how I am to answer. Have you heard of the Serenity prayer?Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

Those of us who are teachers will be the first to tell you how annoying it is to have a constant whiner for a student. But when the “whiner” is an adult, especially without real cause, it is even worse! Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

People often say they just want to forget their past and let it die. But what if  part of your past could just be the very thing that might unlock a tool to help others going through similar things?Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

My story of my Mama Bootsie was first published in Chicken Soup for the Mother's Soul.  I tell of her purple house and eccentricities, and her own unrealized dreams. But most of all I tell of her unconditional love.Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com

I have never had a near death experience, but I actually wanted to die for a period in my life,  because I was afraid to live. Now I want to live, but I will never be afraid to die – and you should not either!Support the Show.Support our ministry by clicking "Support the show" above where you will be directed to our website. You will find a "Donate" button at the bottom of the page. Thank you and God's blessings.Dr. Debra Peppers, "Dr Pepper"www.saltandlightministry.com