in reply to Learning ***** as a second language
I'll be the heretic and mention scheme. You might not use it directly as a sys-admin, but you'll have the potential to learn about the essentials of computer science which will make you a better programmer. Check out DrScheme, TeachScheme, and some books on scheme. And if you're feeling advanced, you might want to check out these video lectures.
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Seekers of Perl Wisdom