Mothers of addicted and alcoholic children share a deep connection—one that is rarely understood by anyone who hasn’t experienced a similar path. Sharing our perspectives helps us all grow stronger, together. 

These meditations continue the tradition of Hazelden’s beloved series of daily readings by providing moments of recognition, confession, and healing for those who are realizing that recovery rarely follows a neat or comfortable path. Along the way, we plant beautiful roses only to be injured by their thorns, and we pull up unwanted dandelions that, at times, are our only source of wishes.

By sharing the realities we never expected our families to face, mothers of addicted children support each other through experiences that can only be feared and imagined by others. From our shared struggles emerge opportunities for personal growth. Tending Dandelions is a vital source of wisdom, support, and strength that helps us begin our own journey of recovery.

“We all need to take a closer look at the things we’ve avoided—the things lurking around in this place where love and addiction meet—so we’re as strong as we can be.”

—Sandra Swenson, author of Tending Dandelions

  With wisdom and insights born from personal heartache, experience, and a lot of love, this treasure is a goldmine of hope, coping tips, and wit like no other. Mothers and family members of an addict will discover they are NOT alone and, no matter the choices their loved one makes, there is a way to continue to live and love deeply. . . from afar.

Sandra writes, “In letting go of you, I’m letting you know that I believe in you. Like a hug, I let go believing that you will find your way back.”