President's Report

Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back — Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth that ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.

I first read this Goethe quote over 18 years ago, and it has always helped me. It reminds me about a life of commitment: to an idea, a goal, a principle, values, an organization — commitment to psychoanalytic discourse and thought. As I write this report, I realize that my term as President comes to an end in December. This experience of leadership has given me much, both personally and professionally. I am so thankful for it and saddened to see it end.

I will remain on the Board as Past-President for another year, but not in the “hot seat.” One of the challenges each NCSPP President faces is the brevity of their term in office. As President-Elect, we watch and learn and assist. As President, we take the reins and lead. Then as Past-President, we stay, give counsel and advice, and encourage the consistency of organizational vision and ongoing projects that are the lifeblood of NCSPP. However, there is only one year we sit as President, and no sooner do we get our bearings than we prepare to leave office and hand the baton to the next President. I have spoken with Past-Presidents about this issue, and all say that being President means coming to terms with this particular frustration.

As I prepare to step down, I find that I still have anxieties about the growth and furthering of ps