Maybe intelligent extraterrestrial beings HAVE recieved our messages, but it's rude in their culture to respond, which would explain why we haven't recieved any. amirite?

that'd be weird to get a specific request to reach out but have it be rude to respond to it

I think it's kind of like when an Ex messages you out of the blue. You want to respond but don't want to look like you care either. 😆