A Father's Final Guidance from the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Zhang Canlin, the father of Lay Practitioner Zhang Zi'an. Having sought deliverance through the Chao Du ceremony at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia, he now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This testimony, recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on November 4, 2023, captures his reflections on his journey and his heartfelt guidance for his son.

Lay Practitioner Zhang Canlin speaks:

"I bow to Practitioner Su, with deep gratitude for your immense kindness and virtue. During this time, my spirit has been residing in the Buddha-land, following everyone to listen to the sutras and observing all the events that unfold within this sacred space.

I see that Practitioner Su is truly someone who is incredibly dedicated to the salvation of all beings. I originally wanted to address you as an 'elder Bodhisattva,' but seeing how vibrant and energetic you are, how could you be considered old? The title 'Practitioner Su' is truly fitting for you.

I do not say this to flatter you, but to express my sincere gratitude for the path you have opened for me."

The Realisation of Samsara

"In this lifetime, there were many people I wished to thank, but now almost all of them are gone. Where have they all gone? Thinking of this, I am filled with many sighs. It is only now that I have truly come to understand the reality of reincarnated existence. A short while ago, my soul was still wandering in the underworld. I witnessed many scenes of the laws of karma and cause and effect, and I saw many of my karmic creditors searching for me to seek revenge. It was only then that I realised the suffering I endured before my passing was nothing compared to the reality of my situation; I owed far, far too much to others! The weight of these karmic debts is heavy, and it is only through the mercy of the Buddha that I have found this path.

Zi'an, thank you for your maturity and for arranging the Chao Du for your father. That I had this Causal Condition is truly precious. I hope that through this experience, you can diligently practise the Dharma. Truly, only by properly practising the Dharma can one secure a final destination in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss."

A Father's Message to His Son

"Father hopes that after you understand these truths, you will share them with our family. Whether they choose to believe or not, you only need to do your best. The current environment is difficult to survive in, and the world is full of distractions. Father hopes that you will listen to the sutras more often and pass on these wholesome concepts to others. When you help others, you are also helping yourself. Your heart is very kind, but there are some perspectives that need to be adjusted.

You must listen to your father's words: open your heart. Life passes by in the blink of an eye. Do not waste your time, do not be petty, and keep your heart expansive. These are things I did not understand in the past. I no longer possess a human body, but you, who still have yours, must make these adjustments well. Cherish this human body while you have it, for it is the vessel through which you can attain liberation.

With palms joined, Zhang Canlin."

Namo Amituofo.