Narrator of Thoughts and Prayers

The narrator of "Thoughts and Prayers" is a young girl named Paola. Paola's best friend is her neighbor, Rima Patil. Though others in the neighborhood disparage the Patil family because they are Muslim, and because their angel is unlucky, Paola fiercely loves them. She is not only envious of Rima's self-possession, but is enamored by Rima's older sister Shruti's goodness and kindness.

When Shruti is killed in a school shooting, and Rima's family plans to move away afterwards, Paola feels confused, alone, and despairing. She wants to help her friend, and to be close to her, but does not know how. When she suggests that she come with Rima's family wherever they are going, Rima accuses her of being selfish.

No matter how Paola expresses herself, her mother accuses her of upsetting their angel, and punishes her.

Then, when Paola's mother tells her she...