On Separation
Some of the most direct instructions on feelings of separation from Srila Prabhupada are in the Fourth Canto of Бхагаватам, where Prabhupada explains that the disciple is supposed to cry after the disappearance of the spiritual master. As far as separation from Krishna, or separation from the devotee is concerned, it’s the most exalted part of our philosophy. The worst kind of unhappiness is separation from the devotee. If we feel there is no devotee around us, then Ramananda Raya said, “This is the most unhappy condition.”
Prabhupada, in 1966, wrote about this unhappiness in his diary: “According to Mayapur Panjika, today is Adhivas day of Gaura Purnima. Devotees at Vrindavana and Navadvipa are enjoying the celebration. I am here alone without a devotee companion, but I have come here to serve the Lord and not for personal happiness. I am prepared to live in hell, even if I am able to serve the Lord. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu wanted that His mission should be propagated all over the world, and that is my objective. I do not mind the inconvenience personally felt.
Prabhupada also expressed the mood of separation from Krishna in the poem he wrote while crossing the Atlantic Ocean aboard the Jaladutta:
“Today the remembrance of You came to me in a very nice way. Because I have a great longing, I call to You, I am Your eternal servant, and therefore I desire Your association so much. O Lord Krishna, except for You, there is no other means of success.”