a few quarters ago (school quarters) the students in my class were learning about ecosystems and how they change because of the introduction of "alien" species. They all thought that the word "alien" refered to what we children of the 80's refer to as "martians." Or chidren of the 90's see them as green men with longish face and huge eyes and small mouth (thanks to x-files).

But anyway as a good teacher does, i explained that no the word "alien" in the phrase "alien species" does not refer to the little green men... or martians (what ever you want to call them) but a "foreigner." I then gave them an example that i am an alien (according to immigration laws in thailand or of any other country). I told them when they go to another country the are classified as "alien".

Just about 2 or so months ago sweet and i have been dealing with "alien" papers. We're trying to get me into the states as a PR... and then i would have an "alien registration number" (hopefully that does not entail use of a branding iron and my behind:Þ).

I guess i have been living in thailand for too long and i feel assimilated. i feel like one of them at times. at least i have the same skin color and hair color. but at times when i cant get the message across, i feel like an "alien". in a few months time i may feel a little more "alienated"...

the truth is out there - Fox Mulder, X-Files