It's cool that your dad was upfront like that. I don't think a lot of people have that luxury.

I'd say, listen to his advise. But if you choose not to, then make sure you do so in a manner in which he'll never know.

The last thing I think you'd want to do is blow him off (at least, overtly). He's being really cool now, but if you spurn his advise I'd imagine he'd be less likely to be friendly in the future.