[jhdude8485]

I used to journal in Word 08 for Mac, so I password protected the file, so that to even open the file I would need the password. Then I went out of town for awhile and did not take my Mac with me. Now that I am back I would like to get back into it, but I forgot the password to the file and it will not open. I click on it and it asks for the password and since I don't remember it, the file doesn't open. I tried going on Google for help but really could not find anything that looked like it would help. Is there a free and easy way to get around the password? Thank you.

[mdawson]

Unfortunately, you are pretty much SOL. Microsoft states the following in reference to password protection of documents:
bq. When you create a password, write it down and keep it in a secure place. If you lose your password, you cannot open or gain access to the password-protected document.
Opening the document in another application that can open a Word document (e.g., Pages, OpenOffice, etc.) may work, but do not get your hopes up.

[smax013]

Doing a Google search on "word password file" did return some hits for "recovering" or removing passwords. Most, if not all, seemed to be aimed at Windows, but it should work on a Word file from a Mac (they are the same file format)...you might just need a Windows computer to run the recovery program. And I have no clue how effective any of them are or how reputible the offers/companies might be...thus, use any such stuff with a HUGE grain of salt.