This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Nian Qingcai, the father of Lay Practitioner Nian Cunxin. He sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia and now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on April 12, 2024.
Lay Practitioner Nian Qingcai speaks:
". I am deeply grateful to the Buddha and to Practitioner Su for allowing me, a disciple who created so much negative , to finally behold the Buddha. Looking back at my past personality—that stubborn nature where I would never yield even when I was in the wrong—I am terrified by my own reflection. It is no wonder that I caused so much unhappiness and turmoil within my own home.
The Consequences of a Stubborn Heart
I have been listening closely to the talks given by Practitioner Su, and I have taken every word to heart. I realise now that it was I who forced myself into a dead end. I was the one who drove myself into the hells to suffer such unimaginable agony. When I was there, crying out in the depths of my torment, I was completely unaware that my were suffering even more than I was.
In the past, I was ignorant. I simply followed my impulses, letting my temper and my pride dictate my every action. I did not understand the weight of my deeds. Now, I see clearly how much I hurt my family, and how deeply I wounded my own soul. It feels as though I have only just awakened during my time here. I finally understand that I had no right to complain. Everything I did in my past and in this lifetime—the debts I created—must be repaid. That is the Law of Cause and Effect."
Purification and the Path to Repentance
"After undergoing purification in the Buddha-land, those heavy, negative emotions have finally lifted. I can see myself with absolute clarity now, and I have offered my sincere repentance to everyone I harmed during my life.
My daughter, thank you for helping your father be reborn. You have allowed me to return to my true, original self. I am so sorry for the pain I caused our family. I hope, with all my heart, that you can forgive your father. I have finally moved past the suffering, and since I am no longer in pain, I pray that you and the rest of the family can also let go of the past and find peace."
A Final Message to My Daughter
"My daughter, I look at you and I see that you are growing older. You have finally found a place where your heart can truly be at ease—the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Do not let your mind wander anymore. Think about it—is there anything more important than following the Buddha? You and your husband are both honest, sincere people. You must learn to let go of that inner need to be strong and unyielding. I do not want you to repeat my mistakes. I was stubborn, and you have inherited that same trait. Look at me and see the result; it leads only to suffering and deep, lasting wounds.
Since your heart is already capable of feeling the presence of the Buddha, you must follow Him steadfastly. Once you have made the firm decision to walk the path of the Buddha, you must expand your heart even further. Make the service of all beings your primary purpose in life.
In the past, I did not provide you with a good life, but now, a truly good life is right before your eyes. Do not let it slip away. The Buddha resides within your heart; with His guidance, you can overcome every obstacle. I have full faith in you."
