It was never colonized officially. The planet was just too damn hot, and I can't blame any government for not wanting to risk it. But life finds a way and the population has been growing over the last few years. It's become a place for people to get a fresh start. Criminals looking for redemption. Doctors who lost their licenses. Addicts who got clean. They nicknamed it the great white hope, because the planet was so bright. Apparently it holds the hopes of humanity there. Proof we're still good.
I tuck the complimentary sun glasses into my shirt pocket as the doors to the shuttle open up. The flight attendant insists I put them on. As the door opens wider I understand why. The planet is bright. A dry heat creeps into the cabin and I understand. This place is the hell hole they said it was, but I'm here to start a new life.