Is their life in an atom?

An atom has a nucleus of protons surrounded by electrons. Energy is present. To quote from Louis J. Halle's book, Out of Chaos, P.144:

Atoms combine to form molecules, molecules combine to form cells, and cells combine in ever more elaborate associations to form apple trees or porpoises, apes or orchids. After 3,500 million years of a continuing evolution, they combine to form even such a pitiful phenomenom as the poor scholar who, sitting in his study like Faust, tries to comprehend it all.

Where did life begin? Since life is a manifestation of energy, perhaps life has been around as long as energy has, which I guess is always. Could it be that the question, when did life begin is not relevant? If the cosmos has existed forever, in one form before the "Big Bang" and in another after, how is it that we postulate a creator? When was creation in eternity? Ah, the mystery of it all. Thanks be for scientists.