what's going on? Something is missing in your java installation. If you open your Console (it's in your Utilities folder), you can see the error message when LimeWire fails.

The quickest fix is to to do a Safe Boot (hold down the shift key on a restart--search these forums for more info) and/or reinstall java. For 10.2.8, use http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=120242

If that doesn't work, open the Console, repeat the problem, then copy the error message here so the experts can see what the specific problem is.