Embrace Your Struggle with Devon Still and Lewis Howes

Emotional Struggles

Devon Still and Lewis Howes discuss the emotional toll of parenting a child with cancer and the importance of vulnerability. Devon emphasizes that allowing oneself to be vulnerable is crucial, sharing his own experience of self-blame and the need to fight through weak moments 1. He believes that true strength lies in showing weakness and not wearing a mask to make others comfortable 2.

Vulnerability allows us to have a moment, okay? As opposed to trying to be tough and strong all the time.

--- Lewis Howes

Devon shares an anecdote about a woman who lost her daughter and parents, highlighting the importance of opening up about one's struggles 2.

   

Parenting Journey

Devon reflects on his parenting journey during his daughter's cancer battle, admitting he initially failed to show vulnerability. He recounts how his daughter, Leah, also hid her emotions, leading to missed opportunities for mutual support 3. Devon now embraces vulnerability, openly sharing fears and emotions with Leah, which strengthens their bond 3.

We already beat this one time, we'll beat it again.

--- Devon Still

He emphasizes the importance of fighting together and not giving up, regardless of the challenges 4.

   

Building Resilience

Building resilience is a key theme in Devon's story. He shares how his relationship with Leah grew stronger through their shared struggles, emphasizing the importance of teaching children about life before the internet does 5. Devon's dream for Leah is for her to live her dreams and recognize her strength 5.

Every storm that I went through, it wasn't meant to break me, but it was meant to build me.

--- Devon Still

He believes that overcoming obstacles is essential for success in any area of life, whether on the football field or in personal battles 6.

   

Embracing Scars

Devon discusses the significance of embracing scars, both physical and emotional, as symbols of resilience. He shares how he reassured Leah about her surgery scars by showing his own, framing them as warrior wounds that signify overcoming adversity 7. Lewis and Devon agree that scars, whether mental or physical, are proof of one's strength and ability to overcome challenges 7.

Be proud of whatever you went through. It doesn't have to be physical scars. A lot of people go through mental scars. A scar is a scar.

--- Devon Still

Devon also recounts the moment he learned about Leah's cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and funds for research to prevent other families from experiencing similar pain 8.