The Gentle Gardener by Edgar Guest

THE GENTLE GARDENER

I’d like to leave but daffodils to mark my little way
To leave but tulips red and white behind me as I stray
I’d like to pass away from earth and feel I’d left behind
But roses and forget-me-nots for all who come to find

I’d like to sow the barren spots with all the flowers of earth
To leave a path where those who come should find but gentle mirth
And when at last I’m called upon to join the heavenly throng
I’d like to feel along my way I’d left no sign of wrong

And yet the cares are many and the hours of toil are few
There is not time enough on earth for all I’d like to do
But, having lived and having toiled, I’d like the world to find
Some little touch of beauty that my soul had left behind