If I had self-control over my drinking, then I would probably hold the same views that you once did. I would find nothing but contempt for the self-destructive behavior that alcoholics/addicts bring upon themselves and others. Its baffling why anyone would bring self-afflicted problems upon themselves to the degree that alcoholics/addicts do.
That is why I find putting other recovering alcoholics/addicts into my life a key part of my sobriety. They understand what's up and can relate. I think it is hard for "normal" people to be empathetic about self-destructive addictions. Even if they are not so-called "shallow", I am not sure they can fully understand. Perhaps, if they lived with one firsthand and experienced the madness.
Thanks for you post.