Rightly or wrongly, I have always believed that.
But an ex-drinker is a different animal from a "teetotaler."
What's your opinion of those who have escape the grip of alcohol because they thought it had too much negative influence on their lives?
I can't speak for others, but I am a much different person than I used to be. A better, improved person. Probably much more trustworthy (and I have always been considered a trustworthy person).
I have a little extra respect for those who have exorcised demons from their lives. Even if the demons were self-inflicted.