Rather Have

I would rather have a little rose
from the garden of a friend,
than 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 ceased to be.
I would rather have a loving smile
from the friends I know are true,
than tears shed around my casket
when the world I bid adieu.