Read Sky People for Free Online Page B

for the first few years they remained in a nursery and couples took turns taking them to their quarters to spend the nights. The whole community raised the children. They did not have a mother and father as we know it.”
    “What happened when the children left the nursery?”
    “After that, they had their own place. Sometimes they would stay with a couple overnight, but it was their choice. They made their own decisions.”
    “What about men and women? Were their roles defined?” He stopped and spoke in Mayan to Buddy, who explained my question to him.
    “There were no roles specific to men or women like we have. Everyone did a job and both men and women could do it. They spent much of their time working on ways of solving their planet’s problems. They hoped one day to live above ground, but until that happened, they were happy where they were.”
    “Did you notice any physical differences?”
    “Their eyes were larger than human eyes. Big, round eyes, mostly black eyes. I never saw blue eyes. A few brown eyes. Their faces were like humans but they had bigger eyes, much rounder.”
    “Were they smaller than humans?”
    “No. They were different sizes.”
    “Did you recognize any human emotions or characteristics?”
    “They liked to have fun. They played games and they swam in a large underground pool. Boys and girls together. No separation. The children were very independent from early childhood. I never saw any fights, no anger, and no jealousy. I never saw drunkenness. I never saw wife beating. They did not show outward affection. I never saw them hug or kiss.” Miguel laughed and covered his face with his hands. The elder smiled. “Miguel likes hugs and kisses,” he teased.
    “What did they eat?”
    “Vegetables and fruits from all over the universe. They brought back fruit trees from many planets and planted them there in their underground gardens. Vegetables, too. Their dietwas mostly raw. No one ever seemed hungry, and they appeared in good health. They did not age like humans, either. The children liked to touch my skin because it was wrinkled. They say they have never seen wrinkled skin.”
    “Did you see any animals?” I asked.
    “No. The children asked me about animals. I told them about my dog, Hero. They loved to hear stories about Hero.” He paused and yawned and looked toward the sky. “They will be coming for me soon. I would love to take you with me, but it is not allowed. They say they only contact humans when it is necessary and that they do not want those who are curious about them. In time, when humans are kinder, they say they will contact them, but not until they stop fighting among themselves.”
    “What did they use for money?”
    “Money in paper form was not used. Gold and precious gems were used but not among themselves. Only to trade with other civilizations.”
    “Gold?”
    “Gold has universal value. Diamonds and rubies, too.”
    “Do they mine gold and rubies?”
    “Yes. But not for wealth of individuals. Only for the good of the whole.”
    “What do you think will happen when you can no longer go with them?” I asked.
    “I am already preparing Miguel to take my place. He has been my student since he crawled. They will take him in my place, but first, he must go to the University. He must learn more so he can help them.”
    “Has Miguel ever accompanied you to their space craft?” I asked.
    “Not yet, but soon.” He paused again. His head dropped and he fought to stay alert. I looked at Buddy, who indicated with a tip of his head in the direction of the van, that it was time for us to leave.
    “There are so many things I would like to ask you, but I am afraid you are getting tired,” I said.
    “I generally take a nap this time of day. Forgive me, Doctora, for drifting off. I will try to continue.” I looked at Buddy, who shook his head, indicating it was time to leave. I stood and thanked him for his time. “Promise me, Doctora, that you will return soon