In step one, we are admitting powerlessness over addiction. We acknowledge our unmanageable external and internal conditions. We learn that we are suffering from a threefold disease with a three-fold solution.

The disease of addiction affects us in a physical, mental, and spiritual way. We find a threefold solution which consists of unity, service, and recovery work. We will need to bring indispensable qualities with us into step one. They are honesty, willingness, and open-mindedness. With these in hand, we can make a good start.

Romans 7:15 says “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” This is a demonstration of powerlessness. Then verse 18 says “For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. This is an example of unmanageability.