Why were Gimli, Legolas, and Boromir chosen?

[Raefindel]

I have always found it amazing that everyone praises Sam in his role of support to Frodo but people always seem to forget what role Legolas and Gimli played in supposting Aragorn.

Legolas has a distinct but subtle role as an encourager to Aragorn. Remember when a gloomy mood settled over Aragorn when he was trying to decide to take the Paths of the Dead? Legolas was the first to say he would go with him.

And he was the one to comfort him in his choice.

Together they went back into the Burg; yet for some time Aragorn sat silent at the table in the hall, and the others waited for him to speak. "Come!" said Legolas at last. "Speak and be comforted, and shake off the shadow!"

And Gimli showed incredible insight when he realized the reason for the dark mood.

"You have looked in that accursed stone of wizardry!" exclaimed Gimli wht fear and astonishment on his face.

And again though reminded by all around him(Aragorn) that the living may not use the Paths of the Dead Legolas asks a simple question

"And what may be the words of the seer?"

reminding Aragorn not to listen to the "nay-sayers".

Legolas and Gimli may have had subtle roles but they are necessary and significant.

[ May 25, 2002: Message edited by: Raefindel ]