I suspect the true difference between our points of view lies in this: I do think that Rose is exceptional. She's exceptionally brave, curious, and compassionate, and I think she represents a kind of humanity that is beautiful to see. We differ in that I see Rose as an exceptional woman with her moments of pettiness, and you seem to see her as basically a petty woman with some moments that you enjoy. I don't see loving her as innately foolish the way that you seem to.

And, in all honesty, I would not object to Buffy hooking up with, say, the Jonathan that we saw in Conversations With Dead People, when he evidenced a depth of soul and strength that I had not quite expected. Of course, she would not have because, much as I love her, the girl is shallow enough not to want to date short boys. Andrew, on the other hand, she doesn't really respect, so I can't see her dating him either.