The Journey Home: An Interview with the Spirit of Lin Wanli

This is a record of an interview with Lin Wanli, the father of Lay Practitioner Lin Qiuzhen, who sought Chao Du 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 spiritual journey and his eventual liberation. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on April 7, 2023.

Lin Wanli speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. My name is Lin Wanli. Within the deep, lingering memories of my spirit, I feel as though I have been drifting through countless different spaces. I have witnessed myself taking on so many different identities, and these memories are constantly shifting and changing, much like watching someone else perform in a play. During the time I have spent sitting upon my lotus seat, I have had the chance to look back at the many stories of my own life. Each chapter had a different ending, and it was only recently that I finally understood that this is what is known as the cycle of reincarnated existence.

The Illusion of Reincarnated Existence

To be honest, I find it incredibly difficult to recall the details of my past life. Where did I live? How many family members were left behind? These things have become a blur, lost to the passage of time. I am now merely a spirit, and I feel as though I have been wandering through various spaces for an eternity. Beyond that, I truly do not know anything else.

It feels as though I have been trapped within these vast, empty spaces for a very long time, and it is only now that I have finally awakened. Yet, the events of my past have become so fragmented that I can no longer distinguish one from the other. The only thing I know with absolute certainty is that I must go to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. It is the only place where I can truly save myself from this endless wandering.

Gratitude for Deliverance

I am deeply aware that it was my daughter in the world who helped me by arranging for my Chao Du. Regardless of who performed the rites, the merit is real and enduring. I am so profoundly grateful to my daughter for saving me! I must also express my deepest thanks to Practitioner Su, whose compassion reached out to lift my spirit. It is only because of that kindness that I have been given this precious opportunity to arrive here in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

This place is so incredibly beautiful. I hope that this message, this letter of mine, can be seen by many people. Although I cannot remember the specific details of my past, everything that is happening here is undeniably real. From the time I was young—perhaps sixteen or seventeen—my spirit began to drift into these other spaces. I was a person who thought far too much; even when I was silent, my mind would continue to race with endless thoughts. Because of this, The Head became cluttered with so many ideas, and gradually, my spirit drifted further and further away. I do not even know where I went or what places I visited; I only have the lingering sensation that I have travelled to many, many places.

A Message to the Living

If I did not speak of these things, no one would ever know the truth of my journey. I hope that by sharing this today, people will believe in the reality of the spiritual world. I also sincerely hope that everyone will cherish this wonderful opportunity they have been given. Namo Amituofo is truly, infinitely compassionate, and it is my deepest wish that all of you may also be saved. Thank you, Namo Amituofo. Thank you, Practitioner Su, and thank you to every single Venerable who has helped me. Namo Amituofo."

Lin Wanli bows his head in gratitude.