# I and Thou – Walking in Praise with Pope Francis
*2015-10-15*

> Bill Young reflects on Pope Francis’ invitation to see every person as a “thou,” asking listeners to count the “thous” in their lives and pray for greater unity.

## Opening Thoughts

Welcome back to Prayer and Lunch. Today we continue our series “Walking in Praise with Pope Francis,” focusing on day 18, titled “I and Thou.” Pope Francis reminds us that recognizing each person as a “thou” – a beloved family member rather than a distant acquaintance – is how God sees us and asks us to see one another.

## The Power of Language

A simple shift in language changes our relationship. When we address someone as a “thou,” we move from impersonal contact to a familial bond, treating each other as God treats us. This carries both responsibility and opportunity for deeper love and communion.

## Ponder

How many “thous” are there in my life? How might I begin to widen my circle and include more people as beloved family?

## Prayer

God of creation, fill me with the wonder of your presence in everyone I meet, so that we may all become one. Amen.

## Feast Day Reminder

Today is the feast day of St. Teresa of Ávila. May we ask her intercession for the grace to see every person as a “thou.”

*Seeing each person as a beloved “thou” opens the way to true unity in Christ.*