"In fact that is the struggle that most Americans - As rich as this country is, most Americans are very limited in their interaction with the world, unless the world comes to us in a very shocking way"

This quote by Edwidge Danticat speaks to the minimal interaction that the majority of Americans have with the world. Regardless of the wealth and power of the United States, numerous Americans are not exposed to the world beyond their own borders. This absence of direct exposure can result in a lack of understanding of other cultures and a lack of gratitude for the variety of the world. This quote suggests that Americans are just exposed to the world in a "stunning method," such as through news reports of war or natural disasters. This restricted interaction can cause an absence of compassion and understanding of the world, and can cause an absence of gratitude for the beauty and intricacy of the world. Danticat's quote speaks to the need for Americans to be more open to the world and to be more knowledgeable about the variety of cultures and experiences that exist beyond their own borders.