Existence is a continuum of endless change but of absolute principles and functions at the primary particle level. When an environment will support a particular development it begins, building upon something that is already there. Things that do not function effectively are self limiting. Things develop generally from the simple to the complex, each addition increasing the complexity of activity patterns. Development and degeneration are continuing processes.
Existence is a continuum of endless change but of absolute and unchanging principles.
There was no creation and can be no end point to existence. No boundary can be ascribed to the Cosmos, as any such boundary would not contain the space beyond, and thus, would not contain the whole universe. Until development reaches that of emerging intelligent life, its progression is purely mechanistic. With consciousness comes the ability to learn and to manipulate one's environment, thus choice, issuing from intellect, enters the picture. Intelligent life is the Cosmos gaining self-awareness.