I would rather have one small 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 I bid this world adieu.
So bring me all your flowers today
Whether pink of white or red;
I'd rather have one blossom now
Than a trunk load when I'm dead
