A Grandmother's Journey to the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Gao Mei, who sought spiritual 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 journey to the Pure Land. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on December 17, 2021.

Lay Practitioner Gao Mei speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Gao Mei. Huiping has always been such a kind-hearted child since she was small. She is truly filial and has been raised with wonderful values. It brings me immense joy to call myself your grandmother; this identity is something I hold very dear. Within our family, everyone has their own unique thoughts and paths. I have always believed deeply in the Law of Causal Conditions. It is this karmic connection that allowed us all to gather together in this life, and I cherished every moment of our time together while I was in the human world.

A Grandmother's Reflection on Family

Think about it—there is no family that does not eventually scatter. Children grow up, branch out, and spread their wings to live their own lives and walk their own unique paths. By the time I reached the sunset of my life, I had come to accept this natural cycle. I am so grateful to all of you for the life we shared together in our daily routines. I was truly happy to be a part of this family, and looking back, I feel a profound sense of contentment with the life I lived.

However, when life finally reached its end, I found myself facing the great unknown. Beyond the separation from my family, I had no idea where I was going or what would become of me. For a time, I was lost in a vast, impenetrable darkness where the sun never shone. I truly believed that I would never see any of you again. It was a terrifying, lonely experience. That was until Huiping reached out to help me, guiding me away from that dark place and leading me to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre to begin my practice.

From Darkness to the Light of the Pure Land

Practising here is such a pure and serene experience. This is a truly magnificent place; it helps one's heart and mind become clear and bright, and it helps to sharpen one's thoughts and understanding. Looking back at everything from my past life, it all feels like a dream that has finally come to an end. Now that I have awakened from that dream, I have only one desire: to follow Namo Amituofo and engage in diligent practice.

I am so deeply grateful to Huiping for bringing me here. Here, there is the Buddha, and there is the great, compassionate Practitioner Su. I am overjoyed to have reached the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Through these days of practice, my heart has undergone such a profound transformation. I truly wish to counsel everyone: this path of practice is so incredibly precious. Do not abandon the most valuable part of your life. The human world is merely an illusion, a fleeting shadow.

A Precious Path of Practice

My past, and who I am now—after experiencing everything, I have come to feel the Buddha's compassion so deeply. Thank you for leading me to this place. I am here, waiting for the day we can all be reunited. The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is a wonderful place. Everyone should come here, follow the Buddha, and dedicate yourselves to proper practice!

I am so thankful for the Buddha's compassion, and I am thankful for Practitioner Su. Namo Amituofo."

Gao Mei, with palms joined in respect.