"We admitted we were powerless over alcohol -- that our lives had become unmanageable."
 

We all have weaknesses.  These weaknesses may manifest themselves in an addiction or compulsion.  Or, we may have some problem that is purely physical; such as, a broken leg or hip that is preventing us from doing each day what we have done in the past or would like to do.  If our weakness is as simple as a broken leg, it will mend; however, in the mean time, it will help us face our affliction with patience if we work the First Step: "We admitted we were powerless over our 'broken leg' -- that our lives had become unmanageable where our broken leg is concerned."

If we memorize the First Step, we can substitute for the word "alcohol" whatever is ruining our serenity or hampering our good relationship with others.  As we work this First Step, we need to also remember that it is only the First Step.  We do not need to begin and end our recovery with the depressing feeling that we are powerless and that our lives are unmanageable.  No, admitting this fact brings us to a state of humility that opens our hearts and minds to receiving the help and power we need from that Power that exists beyond us and gave us our existence.