Thanks for the reply.

My shared files folder is pretty big (almost 2 gig). I tried removing all of the files and the same thing happens.

I ran the disc utility off of the 10.2 installer disc 1 and repaired permissions, but as I write this the LW splash screen just sitting there "loading shared files." It's been there about 15 minutes now. I've let it sit there for as long as 30 minutes in the last couple weeks with no change.

How do I perform a safe boot?

thanks again,
Chris