A Message from the Western Land: The Testimony of Lay Practitioner Cai Chongmao

This is a record of an interview with the spirit of Lay Practitioner Cai Chongmao, who sought deliverance 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 descendants, Cai Tingjing and Cai Tingen. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on March 24, 2023.

Lay Practitioner Cai Chongmao speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I passed away some time ago, and even though you hold me in your hearts and thoughts, we cannot meet again in the physical sense. This is the reality of life and death. It is a profound and inevitable truth. Fortunately, we encountered this place, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia, which has provided the opportunity for me to write this letter to you. Although we cannot meet face-to-face, I can see you, and I know you. I hope that through these words, you can feel my presence. I am your father, your grandfather, Lay Practitioner Cai Chongmao."

The Reality of the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss

"It is truly difficult to comprehend, and even I only began to fully accept the reality of what has occurred quite recently. But believe me, my children—it is all real! I am here to tell you that I, along with your grandmother, have arrived safely in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Everything here is beyond what any ordinary person could ever imagine. If you were to come and witness this environment for yourselves, you would immediately realise that this place is truly a Pure Land in every sense of the word!"

"I know that in this world, it is incredibly difficult to let go of everything you have built and the attachments you hold. But listen to my words: do not spend your life chasing things that you cannot take with you. When your final breath comes, you must let go of everything. Nothing follows you into the next life. Think about it—is it worth holding onto these fleeting things when the ultimate journey awaits?"

The Importance of Preparing for the Future

"Every person must walk this path of life and death at least once to truly understand what it means to be awake. Life in the human world is chaotic and filled with endless struggles, all for the sake of survival. But in the end, no one can escape the reality of death. We must learn to prepare for our own future and find a true path for our lives. This is the most important task you will ever undertake."

"In the coming days, find a time when you can all come to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia to learn and practise. Here, the Buddha-light shines everywhere, and there are many true spiritual friends who can guide you. This place can teach us how to find the true path out of the cycle of rebirth. Do not remain attached to the trivialities of this life. You must awaken and see the things that are truly significant for your soul. Seek liberation, and strive to help all beings."

A Final Message of Gratitude

"I have lived this life without regrets, especially because I have such wonderful descendants. Now, my greatest hope is that we will all be reunited in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss in the future. Please, come here quickly. Pay your respects to Namo Amituofo, to Practitioner Su, and to all the true spiritual friends. This is more important than anything else in the world. You must come; I will be waiting here for you to talk with me again."

"I offer my deepest gratitude to Namo Amituofo, to Practitioner Su, and to all the true spiritual friends. Namo Amituofo."

Lay Practitioner Cai Chongmao bows in respect.