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

This is a record of an interview with Luan Weihu, 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 and his message to his son, Luan Zhiyao. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on December 13, 2024.

Luan Weihu speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Luan Weihu. I have always described myself as a man of iron—a tough, unyielding soul. But now, having encountered the Buddha, my heart has become incredibly soft and gentle.

In the past, I was not a person who believed in the Buddha. Yet, because of the Causal Conditions of Chao Du, I have been saved. I am filled with gratitude—deep, profound gratitude—for my son, who possessed such a sincere and filial heart, wishing to help me even after I had passed.

A Father's Confession

My son, you have always been a kind and good-hearted child. Throughout this life, I was unable to provide our family with a truly comfortable or prosperous life, and in truth, my heart has always carried a heavy burden of guilt because of this. However, I did the best I could with what I had. I hope that you and the rest of the family will not hold any resentment toward me.

Now that you have encountered the Buddha’s teachings and have begun to experience the goodness of the Dharma, I know there are still many difficulties for you to overcome. But please, listen to me: as long as you maintain a firm and steadfast heart, you will certainly be able to break through any obstacle. The Buddha is incredibly compassionate; He is always there, bestowing His blessings upon you.

The Nature of Karma and Liberation

The path of human life passes by in the blink of an eye. We are all bound and entangled by our own laws of karma and cause and effect. Therefore, when you encounter any situation in life, do not harbor resentment. Understand that what happens is often destined to occur; what truly matters is the state of mind with which you choose to face it.

Since arriving in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, I have felt the Buddha’s compassion in every single moment. The Buddha’s compassion is all-knowing, yet He holds no grudges against anyone. It is a state of true, absolute freedom. My heart had always been searching for this feeling, but for the longest time, I simply could not find it.

The Peace of the Western Land

Now, the peace I had hoped for has finally appeared before my eyes, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude. I know that many people are just like I was, searching for that inner stillness and harmony. Only now do I realise that these qualities naturally emanate from within when the heart is purified.

My son, you have encountered the best possible Causal Conditions; please, do not give up. Pursuing liberation while fulfilling your responsibilities in this life—that is your life's work. Also, remember to be grateful to all those who have helped us along the way.

Please tell your mother and the rest of the family for me that I am doing very well here; I am truly enjoying this state of being. There is no need for you to miss me or worry about me. Here in the Buddha-land and the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, my spirit has grown and evolved; I am no longer the person I once was.

Son, if the opportunity arises, teach our family and those connected by karmic affinity to chant Buddha's name. If you do this, we will surely be able to meet again in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

I offer my deepest gratitude to the Buddha, to Practitioner Su, and to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.

Luan Weihu, with palms joined in reverence."