The use of the N word, as regards to black people?

I don't think that it's offensive if it's not said in a rude way. I'm half black half white, and my white friends and black friends both use it. It's almost like a term of affection to fellow blacks. If a person says it in a rude way, then it's bad. There are two types - "******" which is an ignornt person or "*****" which means friend. or so tupac says...