Rosebud Poem by Nona Hess

I would rather have a rosebud
While I am here to see
Than have the costliest of flowers
Placed on my ashes for me I would rather have a rosebud
A tribute of today
Than have the richest flowers
When I have passed away I would rather have a kindly smile
From hearts forever true
Than tears around my helpless body
When Earth I bid adieu I would rather have the kindest words
That can be said to me
Than nice words when my heart is still
And life has ceased to be Then give me a rosebud sweet
A rosebud pink or red
I'd rather have just one today
Than millions when I'm dead