A Nanny's Journey to the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Xiao Zeyun, 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 life and her transition to the Pure Land. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on August 25, 2023.

Lay Practitioner Xiao Zeyun speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Xiao Zeyun. In my entire life, I never once imagined that I would eventually arrive here, in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This Pure Land is far more magnificent, far more beautiful than any scenery I ever witnessed during my time in the world. It is truly beyond words.

Looking back on my life, I cannot say that I performed any great or remarkable deeds, but I also did not commit any grave evils. I lived a simple, quiet existence. I have always been a person who values emotion and sentimentality above all else. I cared deeply for the child I once raised, and today, that child still remembers me with such kindness. It is because of that old bond that they helped me by arranging this Chao Du, saving me and granting me liberation. I am so incredibly happy to have been given this precious opportunity, and I am filled with gratitude for all the help this child has provided me.

A Message of Peace to My Family

I also wish to send a message to my family back in the world. I want to tell them that I am doing very well now—truly, exceptionally well. Here, there is endless, breathtaking scenery that one could gaze upon forever. My heart is now filled with such profound joy! It is a feeling of lightness I have never known before.

I am not entirely sure where I was before I arrived here, but I remember feeling as though I had been trapped in a deep, heavy slumber for a very, very long time. I could not wake up, no matter how hard I tried. It felt as if some immense, crushing force was pressing down upon me, dragging me further and further down into a dark, unknown place. I felt lost and helpless, sinking deeper into that abyss.

From Fear to the Warmth of Buddha-Light

It was only when I heard the voice of Practitioner Su calling out to me that I finally began to stir. That sound pulled me back to consciousness, and in an instant, I was brought here to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre and placed upon a lotus seat. At first, I must admit, I was quite frightened. Everything was so new and overwhelming. But then, the brilliant Buddha-light began to shine upon me, and its warmth seeped into my very soul, soothing my heart and melting away all my anxieties. My heart finally found peace, and now, I am no longer afraid of anything.

I miss you all so very much, but I know that you cannot see me anymore. However, I have heard that as long as you all make the effort to come to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss in the future, we will be able to meet again! I will be right here in this wonderful place, waiting for your arrival. This is such a magnificent world, and I truly hope that all of you will make the journey here!

I am so deeply grateful to have been given this chance. Right now, I am busy performing prostrations, repenting for my past mistakes, learning how to purify my heart, and following the Buddha in my practice. Namo Amituofo."

Xiao Zeyun bows in reverence.