I would rather have one little rose,
From the garden of a friend,
Than to have the choicest of flowers,
When my stay on earth must end,
I would rather have one pleasant word,
In kindness said to me,
Than flattery when my heart is still,
And life has ceased to be,
I would rather have a loving smile,
From friends I know are true,
Than tears shed round my casket,
When this world Ive bid adieu,
Bring me all your flowers today,
Whether pink or white or red,
Id rather have one blossom now
Than a basketful when Im dead!
