The fundamental option : sin and grace

Abstract

Since Darwin's ideas of evolution have been born, it seems that, this theory has influenced somehow or other many other sciences, especially philosophy. However, the axiom 'every thing becomes' is one of the most ancient ones in man's development of thought. But not everything becomes' in the same way. Things develop only according to certain pre-set dynamics. That is to say that their becoming does not come in any way from themselves and is in no way controlled by theme With man, things are fundamentally different. Having consciousness, he can control, at least in part, his own personal growth and development. Man does not merely 'become' but he 'makes himself'. This he clearly does when he freely makes his own choices. I am not a person simply because I was born a man and not a tree, but because I can decide to be come what I want and consequently build my personality. If man is a person because he developes himself in freedom, he must definitely have the basic need to do this, not on the surface or the periphery of his being but in his most deep foundations. There are moments when one acts under passion, which almost leaves no room for freedom. There are sudden events in our lives, which do not give enough chance for serious evaluation. There are also, actions which in themselves are slight in importance, to attract one's deep commitment and full person al involvement. There are however certain choices, made by man, which have their roots in the profundity of the human person, such as in his attitudes, which in turn can be the sum-total of several choices precedently made by the person concerned. Also, there are certain moments in life and decisions to make, when one is solely motivated by his natural urge to be come more and more oneself. When one is sufficiently conscious of such a situation, which is definitely going to give him a radical direction, it must be the moment of a fundamental option; it is not just a decision like many others, but one which gives an orientation to the whole person. It is clear that, when a decision is made in freedom and with a lucidity of consciousness, with nothing backin6 it up or influencing it but the need for a fuller existence, such an act is where man really 'becomes', where his personality is being really constructed.