I’d Rather Have a Little Rose

I would rather have a little rose
From the garden of a friend-
Then to have the choicest flowers-
When my stay on earth shall end.

I would rather have the kindest words-
And a smile that I can see,
Than flattery when my heart is still-
And this 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 bid adieu.

Bring me all the flowers today,
Whether pink or white, or red;
I’d rather have one blossom now-
Than a truck load when I’m dead.

                         Anonymous

                         From The Visitor 3-18-45