For me, I think it really comes down to the definition of the word. It's one of the reasons I prefer to say I am staying abstinent rather than sober.
One can drink, and remain sober, normie's do it all the time. I can not drink and remain sober, therefor I choose to remain abstinent of alcohol.
So if you're goal is abstinence, then yes it would be day 1 all over again. But life is full of repeat Day 1's. You just pick up and move on.