By all outward appearances, he is just another shabbily dressed old man. A thin, almost gaunt man with white hair and beard and a slightly raspy voice, Arnie could easily be mistaken for any set-in-his-ways old geezer -- that is, until he speaks. At 78, Arnie speaks with the wisdom of age, but unlike most old men, he also speaks with the passion of youth. His mission in life is none other than saving the planet.

Born of Norwegian stock, Arnie grew up in the great depression and learned early on that by living simply and frugally he could survive the hardships of those times. But he also learned that simple living was also more fulfilling and more meaningful living. After raising a family and a career as a meteorologist, he now spends much of his time "preaching" the message of frugality and voluntary simplicity to friends and strangers -- to anyone that will listen.

Arnie is an activist whose age and appearance belies his mission and dedication. When he speaks, his blue eyes sparkle with the passion of his message. His thin hands and arms may wave around in wild gestures to make his points about frugality and simple living, wellness and "sickness insurance" or the devastation of the environment. He'll be happy to tell you about the latest books, newsletters or video tapes on these subjects. Or you might find him "thumping" on his favorite book...Your Money or Your Life by Joe Dominquez and Vicki Robin. You hardly notice that his hands shake or that he walks with a unusual gait due to his artificial leg.

Arnie also practices what he preaches. When most men his age are sitting in recliners watching television or cruising the country in gas-guzzling RVs, Arnie still changes his own oil, plants and tends his garden and goes camping in a tent. That is, when he is not going to wellness conferences, doing volunteer work or surfing the Internet! His home also reflects his beliefs. Arnie lives in the basement apartment of his daughter's Seattle home. The 1970's decor of orange carpet and worn furniture reflect Arnie's frugal lifestyle, but looking closer, you notice the walls covered with posters advocating activist causes. Magazines and newsletters such as Simple Living and The Tightwad Gazette are prominently displayed for visitors to peruse.

And there is the other side of Arnie. He is not only an activist, he is also a good listener, a kind individual and a good friend. His door is always open and all are welcomed for meetings, conversation and even parties. His once-a-month "waffle brunches" have become a tradition for family and friends to enjoy and exchange ideas. His mind is always open to new ideas and different points of view, somehow blending the wisdom of age with the rapidly changing world of today. Arnie lives with a sense of purpose and belief that one man can still make a difference -- that men and women working together with the right vision can save the world. He realizes that his time is limited and each day must be lived to the fullest -- and he does.

© 1995 David A. Heitmiller