Mindful Compassion: An Infinite Power

Service providers working in the field of rare diseases are often on the front lines, offering crucial support to affected families. Yet, the demands of long hours and heavy workloads can take a toll on their well-being. To address this, the Taiwan Foundation for Rare Disorders (TFRD) organized a "Positive Thinking Self-Care Workshop" from December 1 to 2 at its Rare Disease Welfare Center (RDWC). The workshop aimed to provide frontline staff with a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and prioritize their own mental and emotional health amid their busy routines.

On the opening day of the program, under the guidance of facilitator Michelle, the participants engaged in a series of meditation and self-compassion exercises. These activities encouraged individuals to reflect on how they might support a friend during difficult times—and, just as importantly, how they could extend that same compassion toward themselves in moments of personal struggle. The group also took part in a mindful “slow walking” practice, designed to heighten awareness of present emotions and cultivate a deeper sense of inner calm. The day concluded with a reflective exercise in which the participants composed letters of compassion to themselves, offering words of kindness and solace.

On the second day, Dr. Liu Yi-hong guided participants on a journey into the more vulnerable corners of their hearts, encouraging deep reflection on the true essence of compassion. Dr. Liu highlighted the emotional toll often borne by frontline service workers, who are frequently subjected to misplaced anger—what Dr. Liu referred to as the “second sword.” These individuals are compelled to absorb pain and frustration that was never theirs to carry. Through Dr. Liu’s thoughtful facilitation, the attendees were invited to identify and articulate these often-overlooked emotional burdens. They then practiced responding to them with equanimity and self-compassion. By the conclusion of the session, the participants emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and a strengthened commitment to their roles. Even in the face of setbacks, they would see it as a necessary path.

During the two-day workshop, Xin-hui, one of the Rare Craftsmen, also demonstrated how to prepare osmanthus flower beverages and roselle tea, offering the participants a soothing and refreshing experience. As the event concluded, the attendees expressed a shared commitment to embracing positive thinking and compassion in their daily lives. Many pledged to bring this mindset back to their workplaces, putting it into practice while also prioritizing self-care.

Translator: David Lee (Becker Muscular Dystrophy)