How do i open files when a filter window comes up?

I don't understand what it is i have done for this to happen. I have some poems saved in my Documents (they are Open Office writer files) but when i go to open some of them it won't let me. It comes up with a window headed filter with a list of different program names etc but if i select Open Office writer it won't open still - just says there is an error :S ?How do i open files when a filter window comes up?
There are several reasons why this may happen in Open Office. The first port of call would be to re-install open office from (openoffice.org), making sure to get the latest update. This would reset Open Office as the default program to open the files, as well as repairing any problems. If this fails, open a blank open office file, and insert one of your files by going to the ';Insert -%26gt; File'; menu and inserting your file.


These should solve your problem :D