Very few people have a quarter of a million dollars lying around in disposable income. In fact, only the so-called one percenters can afford amenities, the majority of us cannot.
Personally, I am not invested in what the rich do with their dough. I take much delight when “ordinary” people get outraged about the excesses of the filthy rich.
It’s entertaining to read how people feel entitled to dictate how the rich should prioritise their spending. We all have theories on how best retired boxer Floyd Mayweather ought to be spending his millions instead of splashing out on luxury vehicles.
Some people got infuriated when they heard that power couple Beyoncé and Jay Z bought a $2-million (R38-million) crib in June. The religious among us believe the money would be best spent sharing it with the poor.
I have never given much thought to how I would spend my money in the unlikely event that I won the lottery jackpot.
I suspect I would be a prime candidate for I Blew It, a reality TV show on Mzansi Magic that looks into the lives of those who struck gold when they received an unexpected good fortune, but then blew it all in an instant.
There is a reason why the lottery operators seek counselling for jackpot winners who become overnight millionaires.
I was left flabbergasted this week as the world media was immersed with the fate of five rich people lost at the bottom of the sea in a submersible device on tour of the wreck of the Titanic, the gigantic ship that sunk in 1912.
The poor rich buggers paid a quarter of a million dollars each on an expedition to the bowels of the ocean. They disappeared without trace, setting off a rescue mission involving many countries while thousands of people prayed for their safe return.
As the search continued, many started questioning their motive and logic in undertaking such a risky adventure. And of course, they came into a beating for being too wealthy for their own good.
Why would anyone pay top dollar to explore the grave site of 1 500 souls who perished in a watery cemetery.
Mankind is by nature a curious animal. That’s the reason for the space race, which South Africa-born billionaire Elon Musk is spearheading.
Whether it’s climbing Mount Everest or bungy-jumping, there is no limit to human folly. Those who stand in judgement are only limited by their fears and lack of money.
May the souls of the Titans rest in peace.
Follow @SundayWorldZA on Twitter and @sundayworldza on Instagram, or like our Facebook Page, Sunday World, by clicking here for the latest breaking news in South Africa.
