Letters to the Editor
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Agree, but... (and what about "ma'am")
Basically I agree, especially the point about the history of it changing it. It's okay, depending on context.
But it's sad, you know, that the deprecating meaning would overpower the avuncular one.
As a guy, I kind of like the waitress/older lady use of "honey," and I'd hoped to reciprocate when I get old.
Also, if you wait tables, etc, you notice there's no practical equivalent to "sir." Many women take "ma'am" as rude, because it implies age--use it and you've effectively offended them.
It might help if one existed. I use "sir" to imply a kind of warmth and respect, and I'd like to be able to do the same with everyone. I bet Obama is the same.
A female presidential candidate could probably use "dear" for young male reporters, and only the positive connotation would come through. Maybe I'll live to see that, and then maybe the backlash.