The Middler: The Power of Neutrality in Life and Business

We live in a world where labels often come first. Religion, politics, belief systems—these markers have become dividing lines that too often separate us instead of bringing us together. But what if there was another way? What if we embraced the power of neutrality—choosing to see clearly, broaden our perspective, and open our hearts to new opportunities?

I call this The Middler.

When the world swirls with division, find your center in compassion.”

The Challenge of Labels

Not long ago, someone told my husband: “I am a Christian business and only do business with other Christian businesses. Are you Christian?”

My husband politely answered and moved on. But that exchange stuck with me. If my Bible study serves me correctly, that’s not what Jesus would do. He wouldn’t discriminate or withhold opportunities. He would open his arms and his heart.

Two hearts can meet and share similarities, desires, and goodwill—without requiring identical belief systems. We wanted that man’s business to flourish. I bet he wanted the same for others. Yet, because of a rigid belief, an opportunity was lost.

When Politics and Beliefs Divide

This isn’t only about religion. Political affiliation has also spiraled into divisiveness. Friends (on both major sides) we once loved spending time with are now consistently argumentative and confrontational about politics, and we find ourselves avoiding being around them—not because we don’t love them, but because it’s uncomfortable and we feel we cannot be ourselves.

At the end of the day, does anyone really need to know your political stance? Isn’t it deeply personal? Beyond party lines, most of us want the same things:

• A safe and comfortable home.

• Food on the table and clean water to drink.

• Health, well-being, and prosperity for our families.

• Vacation and playtime with loved ones.

So why do we let the minutiae divide us?

Choosing to Be a Middler

I am proud to be a Middler. Proud to remain neutral and not lose my peace when someone has a different opinion. Neutrality isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. It’s heart-centeredness.

I don’t need to declare my spiritual journey every time I walk into a room. I don’t need to label my business according to my beliefs. It does not bother me who you vote for or choose to align your beliefs with. What matters more to me about who a person is:

• How do they treat others?

• How do they treat themselves?

• How do they treat the world we live in?

No label needed! We are all One.

The Connection to Meditation

How does this relate to meditation?

The Dalai Lama once said: “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”

And Nelson Mandela reminded us: “Our human compassion binds us one to the other—not in pity or patronizingly, but as human beings who have learnt how to turn our common suffering into hope for the future.”

Meditation builds compassion. It strengthens gratitude. It reminds us that our lives are only possible because of others. Who delivers your packages? Grows your food? Provides utilities? Removes your kidney stone? We are better together.

Closing Reflection

Viewing the world only through red or blue, or solely through Sunday services, limits us. Neutrality—the middle path—opens us to culture, connection, and opportunity.

So I choose to be a Middler. Neutral, compassionate, and heart-centered.

And I invite you to ask yourself:What would your life feel like if you released the need to take sides, and instead practiced compassion and neutrality?

A Meditation for Neutrality or Guided Audio

Find a comfortable seat. Close your eyes and rest your hands gently on your lap.

1. Breathe into the Center

   
   

   Inhale slowly through your nose… pause… exhale gently through your mouth. Imagine each breath bringing you into the center of your being. Do this three times.

2. Visualize Two Rivers

   
   

   Picture yourself standing between two flowing rivers. One runs to your left, one to your right. Each river carries strong opinions, beliefs, and emotions. Watch them flow, but don’t step in.

3. Feel the Middle

   
   

   With each breath, notice the still ground beneath your feet. Here, in the middle, there is no push or pull—only calm presence. Feel the steadiness of this place.

4. Open the Heart

   
   

   As you breathe, imagine your heart gently expanding. Whisper silently: “I choose compassion. I choose clarity. I choose peace.”

5. Return with Gratitude

   
   

   Take a deep breath in… and out. When you’re ready, open your eyes. Carry the calm of the middle with you into your day.