I discovered this lovely chandelier smack dab in the middle of a winding staircase at Biltmore Estate. It helps light the way for anyone climbing the stairs. It also adds beauty to the climb.

Smack dab in the middle means exactly in the middle.

It may apply to place, like the location of this light fixture. Place also refers to geography, such as the center of a town, state, or country.

In addition to place, smack dab in the middle refers to:

• Size – between the largest and the smallest
• Level – straight rather than crooked
• Position – in the middle of other people
• Opinion – agreement with points on both sides of an issue

Smack dab in the middle can be good or bad.

• People choose the size of their meal by how hungry they are.
• Homeowners usually want straight walls. Artwork with crooks and curves adds interest.
• Some people hate a middle position. Others like it. Relationship matters more than position.
• A middle opinion or compromise often works. However, people must occasionally stand firm.

Whether people are smack dab in the middle or not, this chandelier offers important lessons.

• Light the way for those in the dark.
• Add beauty to the world.

It also offers a lovely reminder to remain smack dab in the middle of God’s will.

“Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil” (Proverbs 4:27 NIV).

Thanks to Margaret Bertram for the suggestion.

Do you have an expression you want explained or a thought about this one? If so, please comment below.

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