Hey S,
Many fans feel, I am included, that tossing the saber over his shoulder and the destruction of the Jedi texts / scrolls was / is a metaphor for throwing out the old in favor of a new story and/or direction. What makes it difficult was how TFA played out with its extensive use of plot devices and visual points all pointing to Rey finding Luke. Whether someone liked TFA or not, the saber was a clear connection between Luke and Rey. Remember, Han asks how Maz was able to get hold of the saber where she responds its a "story for another day". We are led to believe that there is significant value behind this one single object. Maz tells Rey that the saber is "calling to you". Anakin built that saber. Obi Wan saved it and gave it to Luke. Someone found the saber and after 30 years it wound up in Maz's hands. Rey hands the saber to Luke only to have it tossed away? It did NOT sit well with a lot of us.
Turning the page, finding a new direction and paving way for new characters must happen. I think we all understand that. But many people feel the way Luke and his timeline was simply "tossed over the shoulder" was an insult. Luke's character deserved a better send off. Look how the Han Solo story line played out in TFA - it was totally different. Han had one more adventure before we said goodbye. I think a majority of original fans wanted to see Luke actually fight one more time, use the Force as Yoda did (which in many ways he did). Be the wise man and mentor to Rey in greater depth similar to Obi Wan / Yoda was to Luke.
I enjoyed the movie overall and I hope the next movie closes loop and finally answers many lingering questions.
Anywho... just my opinion. I hope this helps.