If aliens surrounded me, I would attempt to learn their language and employ diplomacy at every turn. I would listen intently, communicate, and educate them about life on our planet (in case they did not know). Simultaneously, I would be open to conceptualizing the purpose of life in our universe and how we might all collaborate to form a perfect union of the family of humankind and other life forms. Idealism, you say? Perhaps. But a human can dream.
To the extent possible, I would refrain from exhibiting fear, even if that feeling predominated at first. Often, we have trepidation about things unknown. However, when we remain open to dialogue and compromise, the world becomes a very different place where we can coexist without vitriol, misconceptions, and contempt. No one has all the answers, but when we come to the table and exchange diverse perspectives and methodologies, we find that life is a panoply of wondrous precepts that can exist in tandem.
Contrary to what many believe, no one is an island, and it is hubris to think that we always are “in the know” and that we alone, as humans, assume dominion over our tiny blue dot called Earth—and the universe itself. Every being and life force has its place and its home among us, and we need not invade that space to exert our purported “superiority.”
The notion of hierarchies and that we are, essentially, separate is illusory. We are all susceptible to life’s vicissitudes. No matter where we originate, our cultures, ideologies, or socioeconomic standing. We are all interdependent and, simultaneously, uniquely independent, with the right to uninhibited self-expression and action (provided that we function according to the dictates of the law and acceptable norms).
From day to day, none of us know what awaits us around every corner. If aliens just happened to show up, I would fortify myself with my innate humanity and demonstrate what should be a commonality to all life forms: love, empathy, and compassion.
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