EVERETT — Every Tuesday, at the Buzz Inn Steakhouse on Broadway, you’ll find two friends sharing lunch at the same time, same table, talking, joking and swapping stories.
On this particular Tuesday, both came to the table wearing blue polo shirts, jeans and sneakers.
For Paul Pollard — the guy with glasses and a bushy mustache — and James Mock, their bond is about more than just burgers and club sandwiches with bottomless fries.
It’s bro time.
Pollard, 71, is a volunteer with the Senior Companion Program at Homage Senior Services. He was paired with 67-year-old Mock, a client.
Their friendship is a testament to the power of human connection, especially in later years.
“I get a sense of helping,” Pollard said. “I have fun with people. Nowadays, it seems like people don’t want to help others. They say, “It’s not my business, why should I care?” If it weren’t for God, I’d be right where these guys are. I’ve been blessed, so now it’s my time to give back.”
He gives back with his time, not money. The men dine out on separate checks, a program requirement.
Pollard, who has three ex-wives, lives with his 155-pound bull mastiff, a shelter rescue, in a one-bedroom apartment. Mock, too, lives alone, having lost his wife of 40 years. His daughter lives in Florida.
“I’ve been by myself and I’ve had to do whatever I can to stay alive,” Mock said.
When the Buzz Inn server brought their food, the guys didn’t dig in. They clasped hands and said grace together.