"Illinois"

For over a century, and a half we unknowingly called to the stars. We unaware pleaded for attention with Morse Code then Carrier Wave radio, and now Digital Bursts.  We even changed the spectrum of our atmosphere with industry. All this to mark our presence.

We called, and were heard.

As is their way the Star Folk sent an Envoy. This to hear our story not from our machines, but from ourselves. A vessel of bright shimmers there, but not moved undetected through the clouds. Like a dream passing through warm air.

It came to rest not at the Kremlin White House Versailles or even Disneyland. It settled a meter above the cracked pavement of a forsaken part of East Saint Louis, Illinois.

The Envoy disembarked, and floated to those watching. They were enveloped as with a mist. Their souls were asked for the story of Earth.

In response the Envoy was led to a battered Homeless Shelter. There the people said the truth of Earth could be found.