It’s a paradoxical tale of wealth and simplicity that emerges with the story of Heinz B, a German millionaire whose lifestyle belies his financial status. At first glance, this 80-year-old pensioner may appear to be a destitute individual in need of assistance, yet he is the proprietor of not one, but seven houses and two apartments.
Despite his considerable wealth, Heinz B has adopted an unconventional habit of scavenging through trash bins in search of food, citing it as a cost-saving measure. Currently, he maintains a meagre balance of 12 euros (Rs 1076) in his account, having recently withdrawn 700,000 euros (Rs 6.2 crore) for the acquisition of yet another property.
Hailing from Darmstadt in southwest Germany, Heinz B receives a pension of 3,600 euros (Rs 3.23 lakh), stemming from his tenure as a senior officer in the telecommunications sector. His possessions are modest, limited to essentials like a laptop and an internet connection. He adamantly maintains a frugal lifestyle, abstaining from expenditures on food, even to the extent of foregoing meals that cost as little as 4 euros per month. He attributes this thrifty approach to his upbringing, remarking, “I live frugally, that’s how I grew up!”
He acknowledges the irony of his actions, acknowledging that while he may purchase oil for frying on occasion, he primarily relies on discarded food found in trash bins. He criticizes societal wastefulness, observing that the amount of food discarded could feasibly sustain an entire family. He illustrates this with an example of discarded sausages, lamenting how individuals discard entire packs after consuming just one.
Nevertheless, Heinz B is not entirely reliant on scavenging, as his compassionate neighbours occasionally offer him food by hanging it on his fence. In a gesture of appreciation, he reciprocates their kindness by gifting them items salvaged from his trash hauls, ensuring that they are well-preserved.
When queried about his plans for his substantial inheritance, Heinz B professes uncertainty, indicating a lack of interest in material possessions. His story shows the paradox of wealth and simplicity, challenging conventional notions of affluence and lifestyle.
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