Hello Lookin,
Maybe you mean that you want him to live, and if being in a relationship with you compromises his recovery (hence survival), then your choice (your priority) is that his life is more important to you than being with him romantically. Is that what you meant?
If so, then your priority is where it should be: doing what is best for someone you care about. And sometimes that means letting go of your own wishes because you choose to live in reality and what you know about addicts in early recovery--based on what you have read and learned--is that they are very shaky the first year or two, as they are dealing with an UNCONTROLLABLE urge to drink and drug.
To deal with this uncontrollable compulsion, they need rigorous daily management of their disease as well as stabilizing mentally, emotionally and physically.
I don't think dating would serve his life right now, and if his life is your number one priority, it seems staying in touch but nothing deeper is best. For both of you.
While you have more free time opened up, reading "Codependent No More" would be a good way to use that time.
You may be a real blessing in his life one day. But for now, all the experts say what he really needs is intense time devoted to meetings, recovering friends, sponsor, and counseling.
Wishing you a happy outcome. Take the long view.