# Life is to be lived, not controlled; and humanity ... | Ralph Ellison Quote

> Source: https://positivity.org/quotes/quote-ralph-ellison-life-is-to-be-lived

> Life is to be lived, not controlled; and humanity is won by continuing to play in face of certain defeat.

## What This Quote Means

Our capacity to endure difficulty is far greater than we typically believe.

## About Ralph Ellison

Ralph Ellison was an American novelist best known for "Invisible Man," which explored racial identity in America.

Ralph Ellison (1914-1994) wrote one of the most important novels about race and identity in American literature.

## How to Apply This Wisdom

### Adversity training

View current challenges as exercises that build your resilience muscle.

### Support network

Strengthen your relationships so you have support during difficult times.

### Self-care

Maintain your physical and mental health as the foundation of resilience.

## Reflection Questions

- What is my greatest source of inner strength?

- How have past difficulties prepared me for current challenges?

- What would it take to bounce back stronger from my current situation?

## More Quotes by Ralph Ellison

> I am invisible, understand, simply because people refuse to see me.

> When I discover who I am, I''ll be free.

> Education is all a matter of building bridges.

> The world is possibility if only you''ll discover it.

> I was never more hated than when I tried to be honest.