What's In A Word?

Let me preface by saying, I know that we've already had the discussion about the power of words. I was trolling facebook today and came across a friend of mine whose status had the "N" word in it. She happens to be black. It appeared to be used in an affectionate manner. And I also have Gay and Lesbian friends who refer to each other as the "F" word and the "D" word. It's all in good fun. Having said that, I just don't see the difference between saying it affectionately and saying it derogatorily. Saying it, enables it. In a perfect world, we could just say these words and there would be no power behind it. They would just be words. Unfortunately, there is an incredible amount of prejudice in the world. It is our responsibility as students, future educators, future media workers, to make the world a safe place to live. I don't agree with throwing derogatory words around just because the way it's said means something "different." To some people, it just means the same thing.