On Dec. 7, America pauses for a moment to honor and remember those who perished at Pearl Harbor in 1941. This date that will live in infamy forever in our history books, is also a reminder to the rest of the world that our American spirit can’t be defeated.

On that same day, NBC Sports is airing the World Championship Spartan Race – an event that truly highlights that no matter the weight, color, size, background, or history of the participant, individuals when driven by mission and purpose can accomplish their goals.

The Spartan Race, which challenges its participants to “expect the unexpected,” is, as their website states, “on a mission to get you active, healthy, excited about change, and return to our ancient roots where running through woods, getting dirty, and facing adversity was part of everyday life.”

America has experienced many changes since Dec. 7, 1941 – what hasn’t changed is that someone, somewhere, every day, faces adversity. The World Championship Spartan Race will remind us all that “every day Joes,” whether female or male, black or white, short or tall, still have that fighting spirit and can still overcome adversity and fight through the unexpected – much like many of our fathers and grandfathers did on that infamous day in 1941.

– By Michael Schindler

Michael Schindler, Navy veteran, and president of Edmonds-based Operation Military Family, is a guest writer for several national publications, author of the book “Operation Military Family” and “The Military Wire” blog. He is also a popular keynote and workshop speaker who reaches thousands of service members and their families every year through workshops and seminars that include “How to Battle-Ready Your Relationship” or “What Your Mother-in-Law Didn’t Tell You.” He received the 2010 Outstanding Patriotic Service Award from the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.