selfless or selfish?

For as long as I can remember, I've tried to live by a few simple rules: Treat others as you would like to be treated. Do what you want with your life as long as your actions do not hurt yourself, or others, directly or intentionally. Take as much responsibility for your actions as possible.

Occasionally, something happens in my life that requires me to go back and revisit these rules. Are they too simple? Did I violate one of them? What about these beliefs and actions is selfish or incomplete?

This weekend was one of the times I had to question.

On Saturday morning, I decided I needed to find a community activity. So I looked up soup kitchens in the Salt Lake City area. I found a large, LDS run organization which seemed to provide great relief to individuals in need and accepted volunteers, so I called.

A woman answered the phone and when I inquired about volunteer opportunities, she asked which temple I attended. I replied simply that I did not attend a temple but I would love to volunteer if there was a need. She informed me that my "services would be more valuable" if I were a member of the church.

I had no words. I don't understand how my lack of religious affiliation makes a difference. How could this make me less capable of handing someone a sandwich, acknowledging their existence and showing a little empathy. How could someone who attends temple make this situation more worthwhile for someone in need? How could a religious person put conditions on delivering food to someone in need?

I felt such a sudden rush of surprise, disappointment and anger that I hung up the phone. Could I not even help make soup or sandwiches because I am not a member? Could I not help clean, or help obtain food or supplies? Is my difference in opinion about religion so offensive, that one would deny me from helping them help someone less fortunate?

I absolutely recognize that this was one person in a very large organization with flawed point of view. I am positive these are not the views shared by most within the church. I am also positive that the church does far more good in this community than harm — despite my differing views, I appreciate and respect the church for it's contributions.

The experience just made me wonder why the organization of religion often has to come between people and positive action. Don't our rules get in the way sometimes?

I would love to hear your thoughts. When is attempting to be helpful actually selfish?