Kipling was a deep thinker and reading his books often take you to on a long journey through your own thoughts. He had a lot to say on teaching and their are many quotes. Unfortunately I can't remember them but something like 'No written word, Nor spoken plea' can teach young minds rings a bell. Also of course the well known inspirational poem If which advises how to get through life with some satisfaction.
I doubt if this will help in understanding Avalon's meaning, but if he thinking along Kipling lines, you cannot be told what it means, you will have to think what it means to you. Convoluted post, I know, I know, and possibly way off.
I notice that other posts have arrived whilst I was typing this.