this makes a lot of sense, i think. jonathan has been so clearly flawed in his judgment and behavior, yet we're supposed to have seen him as a good guy (which was problematic because of his prejudice against lex). i like your idea about clark needing to learn from jonathan's failures and flaws, and also from martha's.

but i think you're lots smarter and more perceptive than the producers and writers. i want to see the show done your way!