Sometimes a neophyte devotee thinks that he is too advanced even for the association of exalted devotees and will seek out the association of some greater personality so that he can have some higher connections. He thinks, “See? He is great. I am connected to him; therefore, I am great too!” Such a person uses great personalities, not wanting to say anything good about them. Instead, he tries to get the greater devotee to say good things about him, using him for his own glorification. Of course, great personalities are fortunately very merciful, and they know just how to deal with people who have this kind of mentality like in the case of Vallabha Bhatta, Lord Caitanya was very merciful in crushing his pride.
(Caitanya Caritamrita Lectures Book, Adi Lila: 8.62 Kiev—May2, 2000, Pg 103)