Meaning of "When Love Comes Around" by Alan Jackson

The lyrics of "When Love Comes Around" by Alan Jackson convey the story of a person who has experienced difficulties and heartbreak in their pursuit of love. The narrator acknowledges that their journey hasn't been easy, admitting that they have let true love slip through their fingers in the past. However, through the years and the tears, they have gained wisdom and learned valuable lessons about the nature of love.

The narrator expresses a newfound readiness and determination to not repeat the same mistakes when love presents itself once again. They anticipate love's return and proclaim that this time they will be prepared. This readiness stems from a realization that they must be open to love and willing to fully embrace it, just as they intend to stand there with their heart in their hand. It signifies a shift in mindset and a commitment to being more receptive and deserving of love.

The lyrics also indicate that the narrator has grown and changed from their previous experiences with love. They acknowledge that they have lost good love in the past, perhaps due to their own shortcomings or inability to recognize and appreciate it. However, they are now resolved to present an improved version of themselves to love when it comes back around. They express hope that love will not see "the same old me" but instead encounter a transformed individual who is ready to cherish and celebrate the presence of love.

In essence, the lyrics of "When Love Comes Around" embody a theme of personal growth and maturation in the realm of love. It communicates a message of self-reflection, learning from past mistakes, and a commitment to embracing love when it finally reappears. The narrator demonstrates an understanding that they hold the power to shape their own relationship experiences, and they have chosen to approach love with newfound readiness and openness.