How to choose the right language
jwecker: Some great stuff here in the comments for you, but don't get caught up in decision paralysis.  The truth is no matter which you learn it will create a foundation for you to (if you're interested) pick up other languages and/or frameworks.  Get one solidly under your belt.  None of the languages/frameworks are perfect- all will have you scratching your head (or banging it on the table) from time to time.  Some will be a better foundation than others (Ruby and Python would both be great here).So don't spend too much more time thinking about it.  If you just need someone to just tell you where to dive in so you can really get going here you go:  If you have or plan on growing a beard- Python/Django.  If you plan on staying clean shaven and dressing smartly- Ruby/Rails.  When you've mastered the current choice and have a nice career going, go ahead and master the other(s).