If you pretended to cross at the assigned altitude and didn't report that you actually weren't, then you're still an idiot in my book. ATC will be using that information to clear other aircraft safely above but also below you.
If you get what you call a 'stupid' clearance which you can't comply with, then it's up to you as the pilot to advise ATC you are unable to accept it, and negotiate a revised clearance.
DFC has it spot on. Pilots who do things like this ruin it for everyone else.