My point was that any feelings are petty in Halacha or in contrast to the holy words of a Tanna.
Keep in mind how Reb Yochanan punished a Talmid for having a hard time digesting his Drasha on a matter of Aggada. Reb Yochanan said, at another time, that one may only say what he is completely sure is the case. The Gemara says in more than one place that Hakadosh Baruch Hu quoted the words of the Chachamim.
Abaye said that when he had a small chore to do on his way home, his learning wouldn’t be the same. So completely engrossed in his learning was he. Their explanations were never off the bat. Every word is loaded with Chochma.
There are plenty of Sefarim explaining the depth and wisdom of Pirkey Avos. Whether or not we follow a particular Mishna, it never makes sense to say that it can’t be the Halacha because it’s not nice. A Tanna said it.
It is appropriate to express your Kasha. Sometimes it can remain a Kasha; most times not. In this case, I think the story mentioned by Toi explains it very well.