The phrase “once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic” is not found verbatim in the Big Book, but the sentiment is threaded throughout its pages and meetings. It reflects the belief that alcoholism is a chronic, progressive illness that is arrested but never cured. For many, this framing is useful — it keeps vigilance alive and reduces denial.

But for others (and it sounds like for you), that label can feel limiting, even programming, because it frames identity around pathology rather than transformation. Some spiritual paths view addiction as something one can genuinely grow beyond through healing, faith, or consciousness — rather than something that must remain a central identity forever. It’s understandable that you’d feel a tension between AA’s “forever label” and your sense of divine healing and growth.