Is it Proper to Open Someone Else’s Mail?

Dear all,

I was doing some research this week when I came across an envelope that was hidden in one of my Torah commentaries. It was from an assignment I did with my 7th grade Religious School class in 2004: writing a letter to God.

I hesitated as I held the unopened letter in my hand, a letter that revealed what was on a 33 year old, younger version of Rabbi Zach’s mind.

But the letter was addressed to God, not to me. So is it proper to open?

Perhaps reading the letter will bring God closer to me.
Perhaps reading the letter will bring me closer to God.
Or perhaps I leave the letter sealed and write a new one.

I left the letter on my desk, for now. Here’s where I need your advice. Take a moment in time to share your thoughts by clicking the link below. What would you do? I look forward to your responses!

With love and shalom,

Rabbi Zach Shapiro