How do we go from the Big Themes to the Smaller Stories?

How do we pack so many big experiences (that often spiral into so many different directions) into a personal essay? 
By using a concept Joyce calls the Container. 
Previously, Joyce has explored this concept and form with former student Betsy, whose story spanned decades, and identified a container that gives edges and containment to what is often unwieldy and abstract. Today, we continue this conversation and talk about the cinematography involved with our language. 
Thank you, Betsy, for your openness to share your story with all of us.