NEVER RESIGN!

Okay, maybe not "never". But if you feel like you have at least a 0.001% chance of fighting back, insist on being shown. It's not disrespectful to force your opponent to show good technique.

Because a miracle can happen, as is what occurred in the following 10+0 rapid game.

My opponent is a legend in the elite echelons of the New York City area chess community, so this isn't some random three-digit player who just happened to hang his face. He's an extremely strong player overall, at the very least stronger than I'll ever hope to be.

With thorough opening preparation, I got a great position early on, but missed some opportunities and an easy tactic. I slowly realized I was being outplayed. Eventually, my opponent got his opportunity for a tactical shot, which he did not miss. Down a piece, I managed to survive into the twilight of a time scramble...