Actually, LotR brought together myself and my sister's best friend.
I didn't know her too well, but since the films came out, she became obsessed but with no Tolkien knowledge. I got her started reading the books, and I would explain all kinds of Tolkien things to her until she nicknamed me "Master"( similar to Smeagol and Frodo.)
Since then, we've become even closer friends, and I definetly say that LotR sparked our relationship
This is a really interesting topic! I look forard to hearing other's stories
p.s. I ate a Second breakfast today!.. 3 meals and it's not dinner yet! I could easily be a hobbit
(he he..)