We found stronger weapons in the taken king. There were ways to bring some of our old gear back but not all of it. Grow with the game, you spent some time with your toys. It's time to leave them behind and get new ones. If everything was ascended there'd be less incentive to farm the new gear. Not only that but there would be a major power creep because guns would need to constantly get better. You're experiences DO matter, you spent time getting that great and you should be proud of that. It'll be a fond memory and something to look forward to on that next item you strive for.