Hmm. Well I dunno what to say. I don't want to send a message on a board like this that AAers are judgmental if ya relapse. That hasn't been my experience overall.
Each group is different. But I think humility is important for anyone in recovery. And it doesn't matter if ya just relapsed or if ya have 20 years. Maybe this guy shouldn't have made a declaration, but at least he's back. And yes, he's an example of what can happen. I was in treatment with a guy who had 22 years. I'm just grateful to be sober today.