On Becoming An Aussie

This was written by a British friend of mine, he highlights the difference between how the Brits are treated compared to the Iraqi’s here in Australia.

He sent this to me in response to my poem about the refugees. He reveals clearly the discrimination. I look forward to the day when all borders of the world are open so the people can travel the world as nature intended.

Nature has no borders, the wind, the air, the soil and fire is shared with all, for all are one. One day we may understand the truth of this notion and then will an ocean of possibility arise.

On Becoming Aussie

Oh gosh – we were excited! The last of the ten pound Poms!
We’d said goodbye to all our friends, and now to our dads and moms.
There were tears as we left, we’d be so far apart,
But we’d kept them a place in our hearts.

The train from home to London – the weight of the suitcases packed;
The thought that we had now committed – there could be no turning back!
There’s a rendezvous in London, at seven pm or so,
And a bus full of chat to Heathrow.

And then, the queue for boarding! We’re right at the back of the line!
High Commission staff to guide us – telling us we’d be fine.
But it’s slow up in front, was there a delay?
Yes, there’ll be an announcement quite soon.

Oh gosh, we were frustrated! The wait seemed to last the whole night.
They gave us food vouchers at nine, and the promise of news of our flight.
And the news came at last, but it wasn’t the best,
We were booked a nice room for a rest.

Our sleep was light and fitful. The morning came all too slow.
From our room we saw the runway, and the plane that went to and fro.
The call finally came, we were now on our way!
And now Melbourne was one day away!

The delay was then compounded, our arrival late at night.
Diverted into Sydney, meant another morning flight.
Night at Woo-Loo-Moo-Loo, then back on board next day,
And finally we’d made it into Melbourne!

The faithful, met by clerics – “Let us help you with your gear!”.
For those declared agnostic, just “your bags are over there!”
And then to see the city; in early springtime’s heat.
And lots of Aussie friends we’d yet to meet.

The learning curve was tricky – we tried the local beer.
We asked for pints of schooner – that’s what they drink round here!
Brightly coloured parrots – assumed that they were pets.
Nearly called for rescue squads and vets!

But now we’re nearly natives – even learnt to say “G’day”!
Drink our stubbies freezing cold; watch Aussie Rules all day.
We soak up the sunshine; we frolic in the sea!
Happy little vegemites are we!

Our neighbours are Iraqis – spent twelve weeks in leaky boats.
Then six years in detention – worth millions of votes!
Damned economic migrants – they’re by-passing the queue
Did it for their kids – and so would you!