He serves a similar role that Stevie does in being the voice of reason, but he's less snarky and withholding, and he's the heart but rarely passive aggressive (like Jocelyn can be) or ditzy (like Twyla)

YOu make a very good point, and one that I agree with.

He is the heart, steady and constant and so incredibly calming against all the other characters who are all great, but also very, extra I guess. Patrick isn't boring in the slightest, is passionate and loving. Just in a different way that I enjoy seeing.

So yeah, I'm pretty much agreeing with every word you said :)