My father used to sing this ditty for us:

"Columbus sailed the ocean blue
in 14 hundred 92
He sailed as far as Chicopee Falls
...and there he left his overalls"

When my teacher asked where Columbus landed,
I knew exactly where! Out of my seat, hand waving in the air... "Oooo ooo me! I know!"

"Yes, Liz..."

"Chicopee Falls!!" ...and I argued the accuracy, VEHEMENTLY.

At least Chicopee was a genuine Native Algonquin word, meaning violent waters.

Thanks Dad!

Ordinary men and women
each lives a life separate
an island and a mystery of its own
in hidden secrets and heartaches wrapped

common humanity yet the heart bleeds and weeps ---
by destiny trapped
life's lows out-strip highs by miles
too few indeed are enrapt.