I would rather have one little rose

From the garden of a friend,

Than to have the choicest flowers

When my stay on earth must end.

I would rather have one pleasant word

In Kindness said to me,

Than flattery when the 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 I've bid adieu.

Bring me all your flowers today

Whether pink, or white, or red;

I'd rather have one blossom now

Than a truckload when I'm dead!

~ Author Unknown ~