A Grandmother's Journey to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Wang Lai-hao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. She now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon her transition and her message to her descendants. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa-xi, on December 3, 2021.

Lay Practitioner Wang Lai-hao speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. Greetings to everyone. I am Wang Lai-hao. Today is a truly magnificent day, for I am about to depart for the place everyone speaks of—the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. I am deeply grateful to my granddaughter, A-Lian, for it was she who brought me here to this place.

It was only after arriving here that I truly understood the meaning of Chao Du. Witnessing the practice and skills of Practitioner Su, I am filled with genuine admiration. Practitioner Su is also of an advanced age, yet he remains so full of spirit and possesses such incredible strength. Everything I have seen within this temple is truly astonishing. How could there be such a magnificent place capable of saving immeasurable and boundless beings?

The Awakening of a Soul

Seeing so many beings in need of salvation, my heart is filled with deep emotion. Think about it—what is the point of living in this world? We are like the waves of the ocean, one wave following another, constantly rising and falling. When people are alive, they are often unable to master their own lives or make their own decisions. If it were not for the Dharma talks given by Practitioner Su, which allowed me to reach an awakening, I would still be drifting in a state of confusion, lost in the vast, hazy uncertainty of existence, never knowing how to wake up and find my true self.

I am so thankful for this Pure Land that receives and guides all beings. A-Lian! You have made a truly correct choice this time. You must study diligently under Practitioner Su. You must work on changing your personality; do not let your heart be so easily swayed by emotions. You must learn to let go of these things, work hard to improve yourself, and become a dedicated disciple who contributes to the temple. You will not find another place like this in the entire world, so you must cherish it.

A Message to the Living

Please, tell my family that I am doing very well now. I hope that everyone will take up the practice of the Pure Land, because this place has truly allowed me to find the Truth of life. I have realised that the most important thing is not the emotional attachments we have to our relatives in this world. Rather, it is to truly understand the purpose of life and to find the correct direction for our existence.

Originally, I was suffering in the underworld, living a cold and miserable existence. Now, having arrived in the Pure Land, I see only light everywhere. I am truly overjoyed, and I cherish this opportunity beyond words.

The Path to Reunion

Chao Du is incredibly important. Seeing so many beings suffering, it is truly terrifying. Practice is the only path to liberation. A-Lian, you must persist in your practice! Grandma is here, waiting for all of you, so that we may one day be reunited in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

With palms joined in respect, Wang Lai-hao."