Original poster here. Some great comments; keep them coming. I think being able to patch your bike tube is akin to being able to change out a flat on your car. Which, if my memory serves me correctly, about 113% of auto drivers in the USA cannot change a car tire (don't quote me on that though). Being self sufficient with your wheels seems like a pretty old school/C&V concept.
I'm a C1/C2. My 2 current tubes have five patches amongst them, with the spare tube having three of it's own. I'm not the best mechanic, but I can switch out a tube and get patches to work (sometimes). I will never ride with thorn proof tubes nor will I put goop in tubes.