[jjames]

I'd personally suggest looking at Python as a first language. Others here will suggest Ruby (esp with the mention of LISP) or Perl. Of course there are many others to suggest but that trio has a good enough balance of power, complexity and understandability to get you up and running without throwing up too many barriers.

You can't go wrong with really any language to get your feet wet. It's really a matter of finding documentation, books and a community you resonate with to keep your attention and get you excited about all of the possibilities.