Victory. Period.

(image courtesy of NY Times)

The New York Times reports that it is the first time in more than two decades that an American has won the New York City Marathon.

And that American goes by the name Meb Keflezighi.

Born in Eritrea, he moved to the US when he was 12, where he underwent a series of distance running programs.

In short, he is a product of American training, not discounting the fact that he has earned himself an American passport.

But academics opened room for debate on whether his victory is deserving of American celebration.

They argue that race is essential in Athletics.

Meb's African origin plays a big role in his triumph.

Many marathons are won by Africans.

I do not know how they are trained in their continent, but the number of winners from their region cannot be ignored.

It must have something to do with their racial make up.

But Meb is American and has been living the American dream since he moved to the US.

I think that if a person has made a decision to change his life and make a name for himself, with enough perseverance and faith, there is nothing that can prevent him from moving forward.

I assume that like all other immigrants, Meb's family left their country to give their son a better future, and here it is, in the form of a very prestigious accomsplishment.

I have many relatives who migrated to wealthier countries because of their desire to live a better life.

To stop worrying about healthcare, mortgage, education and other expenses that seem like luxuries in the Philippines.

And their decision must be respected by the rest of the world.

It is not an easy one.

In fact, it is painful.

They set off for good, fingers crossed that they will be given equal opportunities as a reward for the hard work they are willing to do.

As long as they are not harming anyone else and have good intentions, they have the right to succeed wherever they choose to settle.

I believe in the notion of a borderless society.

In fact, I believe it is not a mere concept anymore.

It is evident across the globe.

And those who are in denial will be left behind sooner or later.