A Mother's Journey to the Western Land

This is a record of an interview with Pan Yunxiang, who sought Chao Du 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 transition and final message to her daughter, Lay Practitioner Chen Jiahuan. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on May 5, 2023.

Pan Yunxiang speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Pan Yunxiang. My dear child, thank you for all the days you spent by my side. I am deeply grateful for your care and devotion, even though I know it caused you so much worry and heartache. Please, let go of your sadness; that period of intense suffering has finally come to an end, and I am now at peace.

A Journey Beyond Suffering

Because of the Chao Du performed by my daughter, Jiahuan, I have successfully reached the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. I am standing upon my own lotus flower, and the physical pain that once plagued me has completely vanished. I feel so light, so vibrant, and so young again. Right now, I am smiling as I look down upon my family.

The Grace of Practitioner Su

If it were not for the compassion of the Buddha and the intervention of Practitioner Su, who guided me to the Western Land, it would have been absolutely impossible for me to arrive here. Please, on my behalf, offer my deepest thanks to Practitioner Su. Such immense kindness and virtue are beyond anything I could ever repay. If you have the means, please offer a donation to the temple as a small token of my gratitude and to repay this debt of kindness.

The Root of Suffering

During my time at the temple listening to the Dharma, I have come to realise that the illness I suffered was the result of my past karma catching up with me, compounded by my own negative thoughts. Even thoughts I was not consciously aware of allowed my karmic creditors to find me, which is why I had to endure such agonising torment. I must tell you this: you must keep your thoughts pure and positive. If you find yourself slipping into negativity, you must turn your mind around immediately. In your daily life and work, do not be overly calculating or contentious with others; it only serves to harm yourself. I hope you will remember my words and put them into practice.

A Mother's Final Wish

Although I may not have said it often enough, you have always been my pride and joy. I truly hope that you do not let your life pass by in vain. Take the time to reflect deeply on the path you are walking and where your future lies. When I speak of this, I am not just referring to your physical well-being, but to your spiritual essence as well. The cycle of the six realms of rebirth is incredibly painful; we have been everything in our past lives, yet we have no control over our own destiny. You must understand this and contemplate it deeply. My greatest hope is that, one day, we will have the opportunity to reunite in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo."