AA and Identity

In my home group (as with most others I've been part of), we start our shares with "Hi, I'm ____ and I'm an alcoholic", however I've noticed that there are several people who reverse it with "I'm an alcoholic, my name is ______".

Curious about the reversal, I asked someone why they chose to lead with “I’m an alcoholic.” They explained that it helps them remember that being an alcoholic is their most important identity as well as a reminder to keep their recovery front and center.

I respect that. Any tool or strategy that supports someone’s sobriety deserves acknowledgment and applause. But it got me thinking: Does putting “alcoholic” first, over one’s own name and identity, reinforce a limited view of ourselves? For me, while alcoholism is something I take seriously, it's not all of me. I'm also a friend, a father, a person who likes to take walks and chase curiosity. To me, sobriety is about embracing the totality of me, good and bad, while respecting how recovery shapes me.

Again, not critiquing anyone's approach - it's just my perspective. I'd love to hear other thoughts.