Imagine being 60 miles or more away from land, drifting in a small rubber raft with just a straw hat to guard you from the harsh Caribbean sun. Thousands find themselves in this very scenario every year as they attempt to make their way to the United States. Few make it, many die and some are rescued.

This spring break, I witnessed such a scene as my cruise ship stopped to rescue five Cubans floating in the distance in something that appeared to be a black dot. The accounts of people risking their lives for the slight possibility of something better became a reality.

For a moment, nearly all the people on the ship ceased sunning themselves, put down their Caribbean concoctions and gathered on one side of the ship to witness the rescue. Some made brash comments while others took time to realize how lucky they were to be born in a country that they didn't have to escape.  

I have always been hopelessly proud of the United States and its values. Maybe it's because of the numerous family trips to American landmarks like Plymouth Rock, endless battlefields and trips to our nation's capitol.

I have never been able to articulate these feelings until a friend asked, after I returned from a year abroad, if I would permanently move to another country or give up my citizenship. Without skipping a beat, I replied, "No." I might one day own a summer home in Europe or travel extensively, but I would never relinquish my citizenship. I consider it a true blessing given to me by relatives who made their way through Ellis Island and Canada to make a new home and establish a better life for their posterity.

Off course, we have problems in the United States and there always will be. We are human beings trying to do the best we can. Fortunately, we have the option to raise our voice to change the wrongs and we should take this responsibility seriously.

If I ever forget how privileged I am to live in this country, I hope to remember the five Cubans who risked their lives for a chance at freedom.

• Floating to freedom