ONE LITTLE ROSE

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 around my casket,

When this world I've bid adieu.

So bring me flowers today,

That I can gaze upon;

I'd rather have one blossom now,

Than a truck load when I'm gone.