I've only dabbled in Python, but enough to know both Perl and Python are fine languages.

My preferences remain firmly with Perl because the syntax flows more naturally for me and there is just no substitute for the CPAN. I really enjoy being part of the Perl community as well, which is the most friendly and intellectually stimulating technical community I've ever seen :-)

In my professional life, whenever a language choice has been considered with the possibilities being Perl and Python, almost invariably (unless Java integration were needed) Perl ends up simply being the most practical choice.

While I look forward to more healthy debate, I hope the Perl and Python communities focus on complementing each other through efforts such as Parrot. Each will benefit more from supporting the other than by detracting because the qualities they have in common are the things that make each a strong language and technical community.