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

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Mai Yanping, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. She now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon her life and her transition from the cycle of rebirth. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on December 3, 2021.

Lay Practitioner Mai Yanping speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Mai Yanping. I am deeply grateful to Namo Amituofo, to Practitioner Su, to all of you, and especially to my granddaughter, Xiao Ping.

A Life of Simple Joys

My life was quite ordinary, a simple journey through the world. Yet, I was so fortunate to have the company of my children and grandchildren; their presence filled my days with love. Though there were many things I never had the chance to do, I realise now that those things are no longer important. I am overjoyed that Xiao Ping found this place of pure practice. It is a true blessing.

From the Cycle of Rebirth to the Pure Land

This place helped me escape the six realms of rebirth. Before I was saved, I had been reincarnated as a stray dog. Life as a dog was truly miserable—I often went hungry, struggling for every meal. I understand now that this was the result of my own karma from the past. I am so profoundly grateful to have been rescued from that existence and brought into the light of the Buddha.

A Grandmother's Final Advice

I cherish the opportunity to have reached the Pure Land of the Buddha. Xiao Ping, you must treasure this place with all your heart. Opportunities like this do not come twice; you must seize the present moment and do everything well. You must learn to let go of your attachments. Do not be like your grandmother, who reached the end of her life only to find that everything was 'nothing left'—a hollow void. Life in the world is full of suffering. Even if there are moments of sweetness, they pass so quickly, and in the end, no one can resist the reality that life must come to an end.

The Truth of Liberation

You must care for your children, but you must also understand the truth of the Dharma. Nothing in this world is truly real, so do not hold onto anything. Practitioner Su’s Dharma talks are excellent. Here, my heart has opened, and my mind is clear. I see now that while everything in this world seems to exist, it is all ultimately empty. Once you see this clearly, you realise that liberation is the only correct path.

A Final Farewell

Xiao Ping, thank you for bringing me here. I am now on my way to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. In this Pure Land, I feel a sense of peace and joy in my heart that is beyond words—it is a feeling of absolute lightness and freedom. I hope to see you here one day. Support the temple, practise diligently, and follow the Buddha’s path. In this life, you must know how to let go and seek liberation!

I am grateful for the compassion of the Buddha and for Practitioner Su. Namo Amituofo.

Mai Yanping, with palms joined."