The Path to Awakening: Ma Yun’s Reflection on Letting Go

This is a record of an interview with the spirit of Ma Yun, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the spiritual realms and reflects upon his journey toward spiritual clarity and the lessons learned through the practice of deliverance. This interview was recorded by the chief writer, Venerable Shi Faxi, on March 12, 2018.

Ma Yun speaks:

"Venerable, you have worked so hard. Regarding the Chao Du performed every morning, you have helped an immeasurable and boundless number of sentient beings achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This level of skill is something that none of us could ever hope to emulate. The speed at which you travel through the spiritual realms is so rapid that even I, Ma Yun, find it difficult to keep up with you. A voice has told me that this difficulty arises because I still carry too many worldly attachments within my own being, which creates a lag in the transmission of information. I am fully aware of this, and I feel deep shame and a need for sincere repenting."

Reflecting on the Past and Finding Clarity

"Over these past few days, as I have observed the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre and looked back upon my own past, I have truly begun to wake up. In the bustling, crowded cities of the world, I never once imagined the true state of the body, mind, and world of those around me. But today, through your guidance, Venerable, I have finally seen the terrifying reality of it all. Even when I feel the weight of that suffering, I know that I must find a way to transform myself."

The Burden of Worldly Attachments

"I have walked many paths and seen many things in my life, but when it comes to the self, one is absolutely destined to suffer. When the heart and character are bound by worldly desires, the suffering becomes so intense that one can barely catch their breath. I once held the identity of a practitioner, and now, to reclaim that, I must truly put in the work. I will strive diligently and work hard to broaden my heart and mind."

"There are so many things in this world that I cannot take with me when I go. I am beginning to understand that I must learn to release these worldly matters. Please, Venerable, do not worry about me. I am committed to this path. Namo Amituofo."