Meaning: This quote by Natalie Goldberg captures the idea that the feeling of being "done" with a task or a project often arises when we are on the brink of a new beginning or a breakthrough. It suggests that our fear of the unknown or the challenges that lie ahead can lead us to prematurely declare a task finished. However, if we push past this fear and continue to explore and work through the discomfort, we may find that something powerful and meaningful emerges.

Natalie Goldberg is an American author, poet, teacher, and speaker, best known for her books on writing practice and Zen Buddhism. Her quote reflects her perspective on the creative process and the human tendency to seek comfort in familiarity, even when it may limit our potential for growth and discovery.

The first part of the quote, "Sometimes when you think you are done, it is just the edge of beginning," speaks to the idea that our perception of completion is often a mirage. We may believe that we have reached the end of a journey or a task, only to realize that it was merely a prelude to something new. This can be applied to various aspects of life, from creative endeavors to personal growth and self-discovery. It encourages us to remain open to the possibility that what we perceive as an ending may in fact be the starting point for a deeper, more significant phase of our journey.

The quote continues, "Probably that's why we decide we're done. It's getting too scary. We are touching down onto something real." Here, Goldberg delves into the emotions and fears that accompany the transition from familiar territory to uncharted waters. The discomfort and uncertainty that arise as we approach the threshold of something significant can lead us to seek refuge in the illusion of completion. The fear of the unknown can make us hesitant to venture further, causing us to prematurely halt our progress. However, Goldberg suggests that it is precisely at this juncture, when things become "scary" and "real," that we are on the verge of tapping into something profound and authentic.

The final part of the quote, "It is beyond the point when you think you are done that often something strong comes out," encapsulates the essence of the entire message. It reinforces the idea that true breakthroughs and significant developments often occur beyond the perceived point of completion. When we push past our comfort zones and confront the challenges that lie ahead, we may discover untapped reservoirs of creativity, resilience, and insight within ourselves. This serves as a reminder to embrace discomfort and uncertainty as potential catalysts for growth and transformation.

In summary, Natalie Goldberg's quote encapsulates the idea that our perception of being "done" with a task or a phase of life may often be a product of fear and discomfort, rather than a true conclusion. It encourages us to push beyond this perceived endpoint and remain open to the possibilities that lie beyond. By doing so, we may unearth hidden strengths, insights, and opportunities for growth that would have remained undiscovered if we had succumbed to the temptation of premature closure.

Natalie Goldberg's words remind us to embrace the discomfort and uncertainty that accompany the edge of new beginnings, for it is at these pivotal moments that we are most likely to unearth something powerful and transformative.