The Wealthy Pauper: A Reflection on Legacy

This is a record of an interview with the spirit of Chang Yung-fa, the founder of the Evergreen Group, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his transition beyond the cycle of rebirth. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on September 13, 2018.

Chang Yung-fa speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. The true value of a person can only be measured after they have passed away. Whether or not people remember you—whether they hold you in high regard or not—most of the news that follows a death is truly sorrowful. People often think that the wealthy live lives of ease, but let me tell you, the afflictions within a wealthy family are immense. You want your children to listen to you, to be obedient, but you must guide them from the time they are infants until they are grown. From my youth, I worked tirelessly until I was old, and I simply did not have enough time to spend with my children. All those domestic matters were left to my wife and the household staff. The housekeeper was very loyal to us, so I felt at ease. Whatever the children needed, my wife handled it all very well. Even though I neglected my wife in my later years, that was never my true intention. I had long been controlled by external forces. Those who controlled me seized upon my weakness for women, creating chaos in my relationships with my family, and they used high-pressure tactics to suppress everything within my own body. My business success was undeniable, but the gaps in my family life often weighed heavily on my heart. I spent my life avoiding those inner feelings and regrets."

The Turmoil of Inheritance

"It was only after I died that all the problems within the family surfaced. Although my spirit was listening to the sutras at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, I could see my family members arguing until they were red in the face over the inheritance. Even the long-serving employees of the company—the 'old ministers,' as they are called—began taking sides. I knew all of this, and it broke my heart. The very definition of my achievements was suddenly called into question at that moment.

My sons, your father does not wish for you to be 'wealthy paupers.' I supported the I-Kuan Tao, and while you did not participate, I never forced you. However, after I passed away, I was rescued here at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. The principles here are different from those in the outside world; they can truly transform your hearts. All those issues regarding the company, society, and even your family can find a channel for resolution here. Come here just once. The heaviness in your hearts can be dissolved. If you let these burdens accumulate for too long, your physical bodies will inevitably begin to suffer from illness."

A Call to Transcendence

"I did not love one child more than the others; everything is a matter of karmic conditions—good conditions and bad conditions. I have used this physical body long enough in this lifetime. Fortunately, I encountered a noble person, Practitioner Su, who guided me to the Western Pure Land. Without her, my spirit would have been left to wander aimlessly. No matter how many days you have left, you will all eventually have to face the day of your own death. I do not want you to live in fear or panic.

I was saved by the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. No matter how busy you are, it is not difficult to fly here on your own private jet. The true ability to help others resolve the mystery of 'death' is the skill practised here. I hope that, beyond helping yourselves, you can also take these wonderful teachings and give back to society. Only then will the business I left behind not have been left in vain. You must listen to your father this one time."

"Namo Amituofo."