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This is a day that is marked by partings, and some of them are very final.

Today is that foreseen, but no less poignant day when Arwen takes her final leave of her father and grandparents, where Tolkien calls it "bitter...that should endure beyond the ends of the world". One can only surmise that she would meet her brothers again in the future since they have chosen to remain in Middle-earth. Perhaps that brings her some small solace today.

But even in parting, there are those who are hopeful and destined for meetings and reunions in the future. Merry's parting from Éomer and Éowyn is one of those that forbodes many joyous meetings in days to come.