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 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 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 basketful when I'm dead.