Really liked this exploration of possibilities! I have just completed a five book series on this issue using a strong plot and fun characters. Found a small publisher immediately but we couldn't agree on a contract, so I opted out..wanted the movie and tv rights and my agent said no. On the trail again!
I do believe there are aliens who exist in material form just like us - as above so below. But I also think some come from other dimensions and also travel through time to get here. Asimov was genius at describing this in his books.
Really enjoy your articles - thanks!