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A very good read. Got me thinking. Indeed, we're as alien to them as they are to us, and coming from entirely different places throughout the universe, our past experiences and expectations have the possibilities of being incredibly different. For example, waving the hand might be considered an offensive gesture to them, while the one-fingered salute is a gesture of compassion in their eyes. Getting hit by one might have actually been a compliment, while a pat on the back has the paranoia potential of a deceiver.
I'm not too worried. They're most likely coming to us, so they'll have spent years preparing for it. Not only that, but it's possible we might not be the first species they've encountered, so if anything, they might even have experience in the methods of accomplishing communication.
Again, though, be careful. Perhaps the right triangle to them is like the Nazi symbol for us. It's all about judging emotion. Sudden movements invoke excitement. They might not nod or shake their heads like we do, but they'll have definite, opposing ways to express "yes" or "no". Even covering something with a flat hand gives a surefire display that something should not be regarded, either by truth or interpretation. There's your no. Not doing anything at all gives the impression that what is being done is correct.
Word of advice that they didn't add. When drawing, no matter the tension you may be under, TAKE YOUR TIME! You don't want to have to erase or correct something, because that might not be interpreted as a mistake. Take your time, and exercise patience. You both know you have no surefire way of communicating with each other, so taking your time will show that you are thinking about it. Thereby, you are anxious to figure out a way to establish communication.
And yes, I agree that your first, "immortal words" describing the experience should be something basic. Personally, though, I would stick with something like "That was incredible" or "That was scary", because it would give them the foundation as to what you actually experienced as quickly as possible so that, should you continue (and no doubt you will), they'll be able to sympathize with you.
With that said, there could be an entire book about this, but if you ask me, I think the chances of us being in a giant crowd during first contact is far more likely than a solo encounter. if they really want to meet our species, they'd probably make themselves publicly known.
Just an opinion. Nothing more.
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Either way, it would be a very memorable moment in history. I'd either end up on top in the world or a pile of ashes. xD
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