I don't sgree with your characterisation of Ruby and Sapphire as helpless and timid, particularly wrt Sapphire. Ruby admittedly, wasn't handling being separated well, being all frantic and worried and scared. But Sapphire clearly to me had a lot of quiet strength and patience.

Yeah, I think you can read the Ruby/Sapphire relationship whatever way you want to read it.

I'm saying gems from both sides

I've always thought the 3 gems represented different aspects of being a big sister. This applies more to how they were in the earlier part of the season I suppose but still relevant.

So, Ruby and Sapphire, Gem love huh?