1- I need some help here…an open mind, like an open parachute, is better

For more than four years now we have been enjoying the fact that the electricity we need for our home is generated by an array of photo-voltaic panels on our property. While it’s true that during cloudy or dark times, some power flows to us from the national electricity grid, this is more than offset by the excess energy we contribute to the grid during bright, sunny periods. We are paid for any surplus we generate and it feels good when we see on our monthly production statements that significant amounts of coal and oil were not burned on our behalf. It is important to feel part of a solution to an environmental problem, rather than helpless contributors to the alarming evidence of global warming. Naturally, it sustains this sense of well-being, after particularly windy storms, to go out behind our home to make sure there has been no damage, and that this photo-voltaic system is ok.

During one such an inspection, I had a sudden, remarkable encounter with an unusual creature I discovered half –hiding beneath the array of electric-producing panels. It appeared to be some sort of rusty-colored animal about two or three feet tall that was carefully situated for self-protection under the structural supports of the power source. It didn’t take long to realize this was not a specimen to be found in any wildlife guide. After suspiciously eye-balling each other for a few moments, I felt, from the gentleness of his demeanor, and his diminutive size, that I had nothing to fear.

My spell of amazement continued when he began to speak in a soft pleasant voice saying, “hope you weren’t worry, I sleeped in jungle behind you palace while rezoomining blebbergasters, for long swim where I come.” His “English” surprised me although it did sound as though it had been learned by listening to interviews with Russian hockey players.

With effort, I ascertained ( I think) that this creature was from a starry place, “long and far,” and that he had emerged from invisibility in order to “thanks, important palaceguy, and for help understand stuff.” I gathered that a seven room Cape Cod style “palace” was impressive from his point of view (and thereby the occupants “important “ ), and that he was somehow using our solar electric system to recharge his means of transportation. As I scanned uncertainly and unsuccessfully, seeking evidence of a spacecraft, he continued, saying that he “trouble understand me explain difference between earthguys for ‘Universe Story’ I rechurching.”

Then, before he could elaborate, he began to fade, dissolving like a daydream… disappearing…gone…

“What the…what…Wait…hey, wait…”