Too old to be cared for, too young to be respected

John was very obedient, yet still quite neglected

A sad story it is, but not very rare

As many others in his class, had similar tales to share

At home, his younger sister was loved and more

While his older brother escaped every single chore

Everyday went like this, as the issues grew

Until outside forces helped make the house blue

Depression started to find a place in the house

As debts sucked their money dry, much like a louse

Even while distraught, Mrs. Doe kept to her routine

Coddling her baby and, from John’s obedience, glean

With no hope in sight, John’s hope began to dim

Much like a luckless, Tiny Tim

As John’s family ran out of money

Only his siblings were given honey

Time passed by and John never knew relaxation

Carrying the slack of his siblings was John’s most familiar sensation

Sad and overworked, “When will this ever end?” John sometimes asked himself

But never would he take action and continue to provide his siblings’ wealth