A Father's Final Journey to the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with the spirit of Zhong Huanyun, the father of Lay Practitioner Zhong Fuying, 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 life and his transition to the Pure Land. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on May 12, 2023.

Zhong Huanyun speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. Throughout my life, I was constantly thinking about how to change my circumstances, striving every single day to pursue a life that I could call my own. That is simply the way of the world. It is only when you reach the sunset of your life that you truly realise how many things are completely beyond your control.

My children have all grown up, and I have grown old. My life was drawing to a close—this thought occupied my mind during my final years. To be honest, no one can face death with complete composure, and I was no exception. When I first fell ill, I knew deep down that I was facing the end. I knew that death would eventually come for me.

A Life of Bittersweet Memories

I have experienced so much in my life. You could say I have tasted every flavour—the sweet, the sour, the bitter, and the spicy. Life is full of challenges, and only when you have walked the path yourself can you truly understand what those experiences mean. My children have turned out well, which allowed me to leave this world with a sense of peace. As they grew up, I grew old. Once I became elderly, I felt I had no more use. I became ill and required constant care, and I truly disliked being that version of myself.

It was only after I passed away that I realised how incredibly bitter life truly is! There is no way to escape the suffering of birth, aging, sickness, and death. I was trapped in the agony of my illness, unable to find a way out. I remained in that state until, suddenly, my space was opened from the outside. I heard the voice of Practitioner Su. I was absolutely astonished—how could he possibly know who I was?

Repentance and the Path to Deliverance

Later, I followed him to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. There, I saw my own karmic creditors. I began to feel profound repentance, because the power of the Buddha here allowed me to remember my many past lives. I had created so much negative karma. I thought to myself, 'How could I ever repay all of this?' Fortunately, Practitioner Su helped me, and that is the only reason I am able to appear here today to share these words with all of you.

To my children, who now have families of their own: thank you, my daughter, for performing this Chao Du for me today, and for also delivering your stepmother and your mother. We are all going to the Western Pure Land. Your stepmother is a bit more sorrowful in her heart, so she may need a little more time, but eventually, we will all be waiting for you in the West.

A Final Plea for Practice

Listen to your father's words: you must practise diligently. Treasure the opportunity you have here, take good care of your families, and bring your entire household to learn the Buddha's teachings. I hope that none of you will have to suffer in this life ever again. Follow Namo Amituofo closely, and we shall meet again in the Western Pure Land.

I must express my deepest gratitude to Practitioner Su and to everyone who has helped us along this journey.

Zhong Huanyun bows in gratitude."

Namo Amituofo.