The Vision of the Amitabha Village

This is a record of an interview with Ma Yun, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now reflects upon his past life and his vision for the future of the Amitabha Village project. This interview was recorded by the chief writer, Haipin, on August 25, 2018.

Ma Yun speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. Every day, I participate in the Dharma Body Chao Du, joining the ranks of those who seek to save the world. This is a process of sharing, of finding my true self again.

In my daily work, I am always faced with an endless stream of official documents and mountains of projects. Although I have been learning to let go, the final decisions always seem to return to my hands. My fellow practitioners often tell me that I must learn to 'see through and let go.' These four words sound simple, but putting them into practice is anything but easy. For someone like me, who has been accustomed to centralising power and handling every detail, it is even more difficult.

The Burden of a Lifetime

Looking back on my life, I spent my years in a relentless chase. I could not escape the five desires: wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep. By following the fellow practitioners in the morning Chao Du, I have come to deeply realise that my past days were filled with arrogance. I was intoxicated by the admiring gazes of the world, giving speeches everywhere, all while unaware that I was step-by-step creating the causes that would bind me to the hells.

A Sanctuary for the Soul

Now, Namo Amituofo has given the discourse that the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia should launch the 'Amitabha Village' project. For the elderly who have no one to rely on, this is undoubtedly wonderful news—a perfect place to cultivate the heart and nurture one's nature. I initially thought of it as a developer launching a new project, but with the right publicity and word-of-mouth, I believe it will attract many people to come and see for themselves.

This is a pure land, a place filled with powerful energy. If I can help bring these plans to fruition, I believe I can, to some extent, atone for my past sins. If we succeed, I believe these elderly residents can continue to extend their wisdom by teaching the younger generation about Buddhism. As I speak of this, I feel incredibly excited. I truly feel that the future is bright and full of light.

I support the monastics of the temple in placing my thoughts on the website. Let this serve as a reminder to myself to put these words into action as soon as possible. Please, do not lose patience in waiting for me. Namo Amituofo!"