Originally Posted by
Babescake 
I agree with the sentiment, but also try to look at it realistically. It is much easier to be a "functioning alcoholic" when you are well-employed, probably a white-collar/high-esteem position and have others around you to help you out. I'm definitely no martyr or hurting, but the "skid row" reference always gets to me.
IMO, a lot of that is a matter of environment and circumstances. We could ALL be there. We are no better. We are addicts.
I'd add that - at least in my own experience of being an alcoholic - often the line between living as a "white collar" vs "skid row" is much thinner than one may think. I believe that may have been the tone of the reference. I think alcoholics - especially while in the grip of it - may be more susceptible to the illusion & bs of such hierarchies & judgement than others - especially given the self-centered trait so many of us have.