I know you don't disagree with the patch being rejected, but I have to say that the reviewer gave you a firm example in which your patch changes expected behavior.
Philosophy aside, that is a fine reason to reject the patch unless you can convince the reviewer (and the committee) that you are in the right (you very well may be).
Philosophy aside, that is a fine reason to reject the patch unless you can convince the reviewer (and the committee) that you are in the right (you very well may be).