I think it is interesting how so many "recovering" alcholics compare themselves to others who are worse off. My AH used to come home from alanon and talk about how bad off others lives were. Its like "wake up" your own life is in shambles. Do they just not see that for what it really is? I agree that it seems a little manipulative.
More important...What do YOU think? Do you think responding to him would provide YOU any peace or happiness?