Samuel Stein 1937-2003

How rarely does the passion of one man so aptly portray the aspirations of an entire organization! Faced with an extraordinary challenge, the Canadian Psychoanalytic Society brought to its knees administratively by the tragic loss of its administrator of 30 years in a motor vehicle accident, Dr. Sam Stein oversaw af transformation by which the national Society established an independent, working structure that has become the basis for its present strength and stability. As president, he spearheaded a realignment of the cps that amounted to a major paradigm shift in how the organization conceives of itself. In so doing, he demonstrated a regard for vision that helped forge a genuine national identity. This was an enduring contribution and set the stage for enhanced growth and development of the association in subsequent years.

Among the traits that best characterized Dr. Stein, none was more significant than his profound sense of cause. He was committed to reforming psychoanalytic education and he argued passionately for major changes to the current system of the International Psychoanalytic Association. In every cause, he was carried by strong emotions, but even this apparent frailty helped him press forward with his beliefs. Having served as president of the Toronto and Canadian societies, he was accustomed to handling responsibility, but when the job was complete he was always eagerly reinvented by further projects and aims. Thus, Dr. Stein's passion for ideas and constructive change was at the heart of his deep engagement and love for his field.

This sense of commitment and loyalty to cause was reflected in Dr. Stein's devotion to those truths that guided him. It also characterized him as a psychoanalytic clinician who sought to understand. He was a man who acted on his beliefs and who openly acknowledged what he felt. In this regard, he was a true leader who took clear positions and used the merit of his ideas to persuade and inspire.