This is a record of an interview with Chang Yung-fa, the founder of the Evergreen Group, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey toward spiritual understanding. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on August 18, 2018.
Chang Yung-fa speaks:
". Behind every success, there are inevitably people who support you and help you achieve your goals. I have been blessed with many such benefactors throughout my life. Every business venture I embarked upon was initiated through different Causal Conditions. In truth, it does not matter what specific path you choose to follow; what matters is that your vision must be far-reaching, and you must always consider the needs of others.
The Value of Honesty and Hard Work
When I first started my business, it was a different era. People were honest, hardworking, and willing to strive for a better life. Back then, as long as you were willing to put in the effort, you would earn a living. There is a saying that 'Heaven favours the simple-hearted.' One should not try to be overly clever; being honest and sincere is enough. Today, people are born into much better circumstances. They are selective about their work, and while they possess high levels of academic knowledge, it is increasingly difficult to find those who are truly willing to put in the hard work. Everyone wants the best conditions, but very few are willing to endure hardship.
Those who have experienced the bitterness of life will cherish the days they have now. Those who have never known struggle tend to be picky, constantly choosing this or that, and often falling into the trap of complaining. Perhaps because I grew up experiencing hardship, I have always been able to see things very clearly and thoroughly. The difference between what is true and what is false has never been able to escape my eyes.
A Father's Regret and the Wisdom of
Why was I so strict with my sons? It was simply because I hoped they would grow and mature, and not become like everyone else in society. However, the facts have proven that without the compassionate education found in the Buddha’s teachings—without that gentle and soft-hearted attitude—I was unable to be truly close to my sons. They even perceived me as being overly serious, believing that I never cared for them. In reality, I was well aware of their affairs; I simply did not always voice my thoughts.
To my sons: Father feels sorry for you. In the past, I had not yet encountered the Buddha’s teachings. I did not understand how to guide you, nor did I understand how to get along with you. I cannot say that I was a successful father. I do not want you to adopt the same attitude I had when you raise your own children. Do not follow my example in that regard. I hope that you can teach your children what it means to practise generosity and what it means to embody .
The Ultimate Education
In terms of generosity, I believe I did quite well, and that is precisely why I have the to be guided by my benefactors to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Father hopes that you will help in the development of the Buddha’s teachings. The Buddha’s teachings are the only thing that can truly provide children with a positive and correct outlook on life. To be a person who is truly useful to society, one’s life should not be limited to business and family alone; one must step out and help more people. Learning the Buddha’s teachings is the best education one can receive. If you delve deeper into this, you will understand the sincerity behind my words."
