I agree to an extent that empty sayings like "It's going to be alright" may not be helpful. More often than not, alcoholics will be to hell and back before things are ever alright, and sadly, for some it never happens. But these sayings do offer support, and although they may not have immediate meaning or results for the newcomer, one who does recover will most likely appreciate such comments later down the road, knowing that someone out there had faith in them.
Just my two cents...good night all
