The Self in man and in the sun are one.
Those who understand this see through the world
And go beyond the various sheaths
Of being to realize the unity of life.
Those who realize that all life is one
Are at home everywhere and see themselves
In all beings.

St. Francis saw the Self in all beings and respected all living things.  He called everything his brothers and sisters, but had a special respect for the spiritual Sun calling it "Mr. Sun".