A Mother's Final Blessing from the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Zhang Suifang, who sought deliverance 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 from the human world. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on February 10, 2023.

Lay Practitioner Zhang Suifang speaks:

"My dear child, it is Mother. I am so incredibly happy that I am still able to speak with you in this way. I have arrived at the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, and this world is truly magnificent. I have cast off all the afflictions I carried in the human world. Now, all that remains is for me to share these final words with you: please, live your lives well.

The Path to Peace

In your daily lives, you will inevitably face many pressures and frustrations. You must learn to transform these challenges and look at them with a positive perspective. If you can do this, the difficult times will pass much more quickly. I truly hope that you will not dwell on petty grievances with others. Please, open your hearts and live your lives with ease and grace.

After I departed from the human world, I did not suffer much at all. I spent time learning by the side of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. It may sound hard to believe, but I was very sincere in my studies during that time.

A Debt of Gratitude

I am so overjoyed that Nianci encountered the Buddha, as it was this connection that helped me reach the Buddha-land. During this period, I have lived in the Buddha-land even better than I ever did before. I have such deep admiration for the sincerity Practitioner Su shows toward all beings, and I have truly seen the Buddha. After seeing everything clearly, I decided that I must hasten to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, so that all of you who care for me no longer need to worry about my state.

Living the Dharma

My child, life passes in the blink of an eye. I know that in today's society, survival is becoming increasingly difficult and competitive. Even so, I still hope that you can maintain your inherent Goodness and never harm others. The Dharma talks given by Practitioner Su have allowed me to realise so much. I truly hope that you can make the time to listen to these teachings. Let them stabilise your heart so that you are not easily swayed by the chaos of the world.

Listening to the scriptures is not, as some might think, a rigid or dull way of practising Buddhism. Rather, it is about knowing how to change from your very actions. By changing your behaviour, you change your heart. This is how you integrate the practice of Buddhism into your everyday life.

It is my sincere wish as your mother that your future paths may be smooth and filled with peace. This is my blessing to you. I am filled with gratitude for the compassion of the Buddha and for the kindness of Practitioner Su."