Sometimes you need something to give you a swift kick in the posterior area to get you moving. That’s what St. Mary’s Episcopal Church did for me. Well, the church didn’t literally kick me in the rump, but an event connected with it got me moving again.

Let me take a step back and explain. For many years, I’ve been a walker. I mean more than putting one foot in front of the other. No I’m talking about setting a pace and walking for all its worth.

At one point, I walked about four miles almost every day – two in the morning and two late in the evening. Although I haven’t done that in years, not that long ago I did walk at least a mile or two a couple of times a week.

Oh I felt good when I had my routine. I’d walk and then spend about 15-30 minutes practicing yoga. My body was happy. My breathing was easier. My disposition was better.

Then I started skipping the walks. There were many excuses I found for not getting out and moving. It was too cold. It was too hot. My chair was too comfortable.

I stayed with my yoga, but the walks fell by the wayside. My body missed them, so I made it lots of promises.

“I’ll walk you tomorrow,” was the most popular one.

Of course, tomorrow came and went without me following through on that promise. My intentions were good or put another way, the spirit was willing but the flesh was so weak.

Then just after Christmas, I heard about St. Mary’s having a 5K Mardi Gras Walk/Run to benefit its Rice and Beans Ministry. I also heard you could meet at the church on Saturdays leading up to the event and train for the 5K.

For those of you not familiar with the Rice and Beans Ministry, once a month this ministry provides food items and a hot breakfast for people. The doors of the church open to anyone who needs and wants to come.

Well, there was the motivation I needed. First, I liked the idea of supporting the Rice and Bean Ministry. Second, having a set time to walk with other people every week made it easier for me to get up and out the door.

I walked that first Saturday. It felt good and my body thanked me. It also stirred memories of how wonderful it was when I was walking regularly. So, I started walking several mornings a week at home too. Coupled with yoga and a bit of meditation, it is an amazing way to start off a day.

Last Saturday was the final training day, and this Saturday is the 5K. It’s been wonderful to see the progress all of the walkers and runners made, and it will be great fun to be part of this Walk/Run/Mardi Gras celebration.

There is even a yummy Red Beans and Rice lunch following the event. (You can buy a ticket and eat even if you don’t walk or run).

As added fun, participants can dress like Mardi Gras revelers if they wish. I’m thinking we might see masks and beads and feathers.

Anyway, this column is my way of saying a big thank you to St. Mary’s for giving me the swift kick, (inspiration) I needed to get moving again. My mind, body and spirit are grateful.

Oh, and it’s not too late for anyone else who needs a little booty kicking inspiration to join the fun and support a wonderful ministry. The St. Mary’s Mardi Gras 5K Run & Walk is Saturday, March 1 at 9 a.m. A Fun Run is set for 10 a.m. and lunch is at 11 a.m.

Registration for the Walk/Run is $25, and $10 for the Fun Run. A lunch ticket is $5.

So come on, get up and get moving folks. Oh, and be on the lookout because now that I am moving again, I’m ready for some fancy walking.