13. NEI honors subjective learning as the crucial link between our unique, individual experience and the objective reality we share with others

There are two kinds of knowledge. Objective knowledge comes from viewing an object mentally and dispassionately from the outside, by analyzing it, comparing it with other objects, and finally by defining it. Western education embraces only this form of knowing.

The origins of spiritual knowledge result from a completely different process, a creative rather than an analytical process. Rather than mental dissociation and analysis, the seeker of spiritual or subjective knowledge ignores the world as it is, its objects, situations, and problems, to focus on what he or she wants to become and what circumstances he or she wants to create for his or her life.

The goal is create new circumstances by enlarging one's identity. One imagines a desired state of being and particular circumstances that reflect the new identify. By giving focused attention to NEW desired circumstance and FEELING the result, one creates a new world for oneself. Instead of just passively talking about an unfulfilled desire, one envisions and creates it.

This process is second nature to an artist: a painter, novelist, a poet, a composer, an interpretive dancer, or a sculptor. These artists are inspired to create a work of art. The focus attention in order to imagine or envision it, feel it reality, and then compose it.

When we examine our subjective experiences, we notice that they are the doorways to discovering significance, meaning, and beauty. Without subjectivity, there is no individual purpose, nor relevance, nor spontaneity, nor creative life. Without the force of feelings and intuitions, without the power of imagination to infuse new life into what has atrophied or died, we are soulless robots in a mechanical universe.

Subjectivity is the medium in which all relationships --- with our self, with others, and with Nature --- exist and develop. Without subjectivity there is no genuine personal experience, and there is no ground on which to build meaningful rapport with others.

It is a stumbling block of traditional education to tenaciously and obstinately resist the experience of real self-expression. Dissociation allows sympathy (a feeling that arises from a sense of superiority. Empathy, however, springs forth from genuine interconnection, from a sense of the equality of being. While objectivity breeds disconnection and arrogance, subjectivity grants us connection on the basis of equality. Spiritual subjectivity is the portal to to many gifts: compassion, forgiveness, grace, and unconditional love.

At long last, let education sanction these gifts of the human heart and human spirit. Authentic Education, that which furthers spirit as well as mind, feeling as well as intellect, soul as well intellect, is the new paradigm of Holistic Education.