I certainly don't like getting stung and I try to avoid it. I wear nitrile glove when I have to go deep into a hive for inspection. What I really hate is the multiple stings I get from a hot hive, and a hot hive gets dealt with asap. I've recently been seen running around to the other side of the house swatting at several bees that were chasing me. I got tagged a dozen times that afternoon. Welcome new splits!
But I do understand that bees are stinging critters and to intentionally work with them for the "pleasure" of it is to invite stings. I don't use a full bee suit anymore (it is gathering dust in a closet, only comes out for guests to use) and leather gloves are only used for as long as it takes to break up a hot hive. I will do basic work on calm hives with just a veil, usually barehanded. Sometimes I'll get 1 or 2 stings, sometimes no sting at all. I've actually come to enjoy the feel of the bees roaming over my bare hands. At these times, it is my own fault when I get stung.
I also enjoy the apparent reduction in arthritic inflammation and pain after a sting. But no, I don't seek to get stung intentionally.
So to sum up, my full suit of "armour" and leather gloves are in the closet. I use a jacket and nitrile gloves for inspection and when taking honey, and I use a veil and bare hands, sometimes nitrile gloves, for cursory inspections and feeding. I don't like getting stung, but I accept the reality that it is part of the job.