A UNIVERSE BUILT UPON RELATIONS

Edwin Francisco Herrera Paz. At the very moment of creation -the so-called big bang by modern physics- all matter and energy were in a state of infinite density. The four forces of nature (strong force, weak force, electromagnetic force and gravitational force) formed a single super force. As the universe cooled before the first second, the energy was condensed into a plasma of particles (fermions and bosons). Fermions were split into electrons and quarks (and others). The quaks were linked in groups of three to form protons and neutrons, which in turn associated with electrons to form hydrogen atoms.

After the first second of creation the fundamental laws that govern the universe today were already present. The four forces split to master different spatial scales. Gradually, the hydrogen atoms fused to form helium atoms. The helium and hydrogen atoms formed by the clouds of dust were associated to form clusters, which at the same time condensed and form the first generation stars. The stars were linked together to form galaxies, and within stars, the complexity of the relationships of subatomic particles gradually increased to form heavier elements, including oxygen and carbon.

Inside the stars and planets, atoms linked together to form chemical compounds such as methane and carbon dioxide. On Earth, chemically related compounds associated to form molecular motors, which in turn related to form small appliances with special functions (organelles), which then linked to form cells. The cells linked to form multi-celled organisms. As more complex cellular relationships merged, different parts of the organisms related to form different organs, which then were linked to form complex organisms. Complex organisms called humans are related to form social groups and institutions, which in turn are related to form complex societies.

Each of the four forces fulfills its role in the universe, linking the complex structures in several forms: weak and strong forces at the atomic and subatomic level; the electromagnetic force at the molecular level, and gravitation force at a planetary, stellar and galactic level. The action of all forces is orchestrated to form complexity; to organize matter at different levels.

We human beings are interrelated in many different ways, but love and cooperation are the relationships that mainly agglomerate us to form families and tribes, and from there on, corporations, neighborhoods, cities, countries and communities of countries. Relationships are often more important than individuals as they form structure, the scaffolding on which all social systems are developed. Individuals are ephemeral, but relationships maintain the identity of a society throughout time, even if individuals are no longer the same.

That is why Jesus taught us the principle: love one another as I have loved you (John 13:34). Jesus knows the importance of vertical relations, with our parents, children, and with the Creator; and horizontal relations, with our brothers, neighbors and friends. He certainly knows the importance of relations, for his Father's universe is built upon them.