If I should go before the rest of you
Break not a flower or inscribe a stone
Nor when I’m gone speak in a Sunday voice
But be the usual selves I’be known.
Weep if you must,
Parting is hell,
But life goes on,
So sing as well.

Not how did he die,but how did he live?
Not,what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.
Not what was his church, nor what was his creed?
But had he befriended those really in need?
Was he ever ready, with a word of good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not what did the sketch in the newspaper did say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away?