The old man in the story chose to preserve something valuable despite it being for his own benefit. He recognized the importance of protecting what others had destroyed, out of personal interest rather than altruism. His actions reflect a selfish motivation to retain and safeguard a piece of the world, driven by his own needs and desires.

He believed that maintaining what remained was crucial, even if it seemed to go against the destruction around him. This decision highlights a complex moral stance, showing that sometimes preservation is motivated by self-interest rather than a desire to serve the greater good.