Not Today

Sorry I can't come today, He's got a social worker calling I must be there. Can I raincheck lunch? His leg gave out on the stairs And no one else is here. Another time, But time is not my own I have his lunch to prepare. My career can wait His needs come before my ambition And now I am too old. Doctors appointments missed Too busy hanging sheets out to dry My own health left to decline. A pitiful sum Replacing a livable wage Duty of love keeps me there. My life Saved the government millions Yet my voice shall never be heard. Form: Free Verse