A Father’s Journey to the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Gu Shudeng, 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 cycle of rebirth to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on May 9, 2025.

Lay Practitioner Gu Shudeng speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Gu Shudeng. I want to offer my deepest thanks to Namo Amituofo and to Practitioner Su. I am a completely different person now; I have regained the appearance of a young, strong man. This is something I am truly proud of. I know that the way I speak is still far from the level of a Buddha, but I am simply being myself, and that is a wonderful feeling."

A New Life in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss

"I once had a physical body, with my own desires and pursuits. These did not simply vanish just because I grew old. Many people might not agree with me, but I know that this kind of life—the one I have now—is the life I truly wanted. It is a life free from the constraints of age and the decay of the physical form.

I want to thank my daughter for helping her father receive Chao Du. It turns out that all the love I poured into you was not in vain. It was because of you that I came to know the Dharma, and it is because of this that I have the opportunity today to be liberated. I no longer have to remain in this world to suffer. I am finally free from the endless cycle of rebirth that once held me captive."

The Truth Behind My Past

"Ever since my spirit was guided to the Buddha-land, I have experienced a profound transformation. It is something I can feel clearly within myself. I am deeply grateful for the Buddha’s compassion toward me, which reached out even when I was lost in the darkness of my own ignorance.

When I first arrived in the Buddha-land, my mind was not yet entirely clear. All my memories were still anchored to my past life and my old habits. It was only after I gradually regained clarity that I realised how often I had been controlled by my karmic creditors. My decisions and my emotions were not always my own true thoughts. Because of this, I caused pain to my dearest family members during my life. I want to take this opportunity to apologise to my family and my children. I hope you can forgive me for the ways I fell short and for the times I was not the father you deserved."

A Heart at Peace

"Now I finally understand that the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss is such a precious place. Whatever I want or need, it manifests exactly as I wish. I am so happy here, and I truly want to stay in this Western Land of Ultimate Bliss forever. There is no more fear, no more pain, and no more confusion.

I am so grateful for our meeting in this lifetime; now I understand that everything is a matter of Causal Conditions. I know that I still have many debts from the past that I have not yet repaid, and I will work hard to chant the Buddha-name and dedicate the merit. I hope you are all doing well, and I hope that sometimes, when you chant the Buddha-name 'Namo Amituofo,' you will remember that I am already by the Buddha's side, watching over you with a heart full of peace.

I am grateful for all the good Causal Conditions that brought us together. I am grateful to the Buddha, to Practitioner Su, and to my family and children. I am better than I have ever been, so please, do not worry about me anymore. With palms joined, Gu Shudeng. Namo Amituofo."