This 1990 essay offers a philosophical critique of the slogans "back to Europe" and "return to history" prevalent in post-communist societies. The author argues that history is not a destination one can re-enter, but a continuous process created by historical subjects. True historical existence is defined by a radical orientation toward the future, replacing the archaic reliance on mythical archetypes. This conceptual shift, rooted in ancient Israel and mediated by Christianity, establishes Europe as a historical event and a shared task rather than a mere geographic entity. The text warns against the pitfalls of modernity, which tends to hollow out the future, and cautions against the passive imitation of Western models. It asserts that Central and Eastern European nations never truly left history; rather, they lived it under different conditions. The author calls for an active, responsible engagement with the future, characterized by the ability to respond to non-objective challenges. Ultimately, Europe's survival depends on maintaining its tradition of historical reflection and agency.