Just look at this thread for examples. They use ridicule and a distortion of the facts to heap unfair criticisms on the witnesses.
I'm not saying that we should swallow every story whole,but you have to give some sightings credence based on the facts and the status of the witnesses.
Probably this is the best way. If in our lifetimes, God forbid, the real crap with aliens hits the fan, at least it won't come as a complete surprise to them. But until then, let them have their comfort.
It was reading Apollo 7 astronaut Gordon Cooper's autobiography, "Leap of Faith," that cinches it for me. Only a few pages in this full-length book were about his experiences with UFOs, but enough to be ... enough for me. I'd just as soon not believe, but that would entail self-deception.