This document provides guidance on choosing a focused topic or "grain of sand" to write about from a larger set of ideas or experiences. It stresses the importance of identifying a "Big Tomato" or core message you want to convey about how the topic reflects your beliefs. Developing a clear thesis statement around the Big Tomato will help ensure the essay stays focused on explaining what is significant about the chosen topic rather than getting sidetracked by unrelated details. The goal is to answer the "So What" question and show readers how the topic illustrates an important belief or lesson learned.