The Journey of Lay Practitioner Liu Bangmai to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss

This is a record of an interview with Liu Bangmai, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his transition from the human realm. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on January 20, 2023.

Lay Practitioner Liu Bangmai speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I have finally arrived at the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss! I am Liu Bangmai. I lived to a ripe old age, and I suppose that was enough, but to say I was not afraid of death would be a lie. Of course, I wanted to stay longer, but everyone’s time eventually comes to an end. Even though I knew this, my heart was truly not prepared for the moment of departure.

Reflections on a Lifetime

Looking back on my life, I feel very content; I lacked for nothing. Yet, I never expected that when the time came to die, my heart would still be so attached to my family. I hope my younger relatives will live well and take care of one another. Life in this society is not simple. Now that I have departed, I hope you will all keep your hearts grounded and live your lives with honesty and integrity. This is my final instruction to you all.

The Path to the Buddha-Land

I never imagined that my spirit would be brought to this Buddha-land. Here, I join everyone in chanting Namo Amituofo every single day. My heart is incredibly peaceful, and I have no more afflictions. I know it was Minxian who helped me receive Chao Du, allowing me to come to this place of light, free from all suffering. Our Causal Conditions are indeed deep.

A Message to the Living

Minxian, I know your health has not been the best lately. Let me offer you a few words of counsel: as you walk through this life, you must learn to let go of what needs to be released. Open your heart and follow the Buddha. Otherwise, life is simply too bitter. Everyone experiences suffering in different ways, but once you truly let go, all that bitterness vanishes.

Life passes by in the blink of an eye. You must cherish and seize the Causal Conditions you have right now. Your father was a person of great Goodness, and because of that, all of you are kind-hearted as well. There is nothing in this world that you cannot overcome. Please give my regards to your mother, my third sister-in-law; I hope she remains in good health.

Peace in the Western Land

If you have the opportunity, please let my family know that I have already reached the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. There is no need for them to burn incense for me anymore; I am doing very well here. I have seen the Buddha, and the Buddha is filled with such immense compassion. I feel truly fortunate. I will continue to follow the Buddha, practise diligently, and chant Namo Amituofo. You should all be happy for me, but also think carefully about your own futures. Chant Namo Amituofo more, and do not let your minds wander into unnecessary worries.

Namo Amituofo."