Well I have Visual Basic, Java, Javascript, and a relatively small amount of SQL behind me, the first three languages I mentioned I am more proficient with. I have been learning bits and pieces of Python, but I am like most people in that I tend to learn languages by immersing myself in one at a time. I have been studying Javascript as of late.
To the OP, you could try Soulphire's suggestions, he has stated very good reasons to do so, and they make sense to me as well. Python is mentioned a lot by people at other forums as well, for being a good one to start with, and with your experience you have already, you probably should do well with it, given what has been said about Python by people experienced with it.
In response to you, Soulphire, I have learned that there are some basic logic similarities in different coding techniques that seem to go across the boards, with syntax being the differences. I know of some of the similarities you refer to so given my background I feel that I could learn Python without much problem, and C++ sounds like a go, if I so choose at some point, which I most likely will choose to do so. Thanks, Soul, for your input.