My home from home for 15 years
Is voting today
In or out, I have no say,
despite my fears.

As I sit and wait I think of love and hate

For years I’ve said,
With some pride and joy:
“The UK is opened,
Welcoming and proud
Of cultures and people”

As I sit and wait
I think of love and hate

I came to study and stayed
I felt welcome
Valued and nurtured.
My career flourished
My life here grew roots.

As I sit and wait
I think of love and hate

But lately, all this hate!
Of all who aren’t “local”...
Suddenly, my name is an issue
My accent raises eyebrows.
I have not changed,
Why have you, UK?

As I sit and wait
I think of love and hate

My home from home
Decides today
If it’s still my home
Or wants to send me away

I have no say,
Just hope
As I wait,
Thinking of love and hate

Paula,
European