@redline:
i think you're the type of person who doesn't want to leave any stones unturned. and i think you'll be spending more time thinking of what language to start on than actually 'starting'. yet what you're going through is not uncommon.
if you want to be a system developer then learn any C-like language. start with C++. it's powerful. it's an improved version of C (that explains the increment value "++"). it's Object Oriented. it has more features. and your transition to other languages wouldn't be that hard if you're coming from C++. if you're thinking to start with C to learn C++, i say you'll just be waisting your time. you will then have to unlearn C to learn C++. that sucks! you might rather wanna learn C++ then take a peek at C later. but then again other people here in the forum could say differently. but i strongly suggest you start with C++.
if you want to be a web developer, i suggest you start with PHP rather than those .NET languages. why? first it's a C-like language. second, for starters you need to hard code your scripts and not rely on programs to do it for you. for example, Microsoft's Visual Studio. you can practically make a program without having to type a single code. you'll just be clicking and clicking and then you'll have a program. is this good? for Microsoft it is. because then you'll be reliant on their programs. without it you're not a programmer. but with PHP you'll be typing and typing and pulling your hair, racking your brain, biting your fingers... but then you'll learn a lot. and you'll be a good programmer!

and third, you'll be in the 'open-source' environment which i personally think is an 'arduous challenge of the intellect' w/c most geeks love.
also one thing to take note of, C-like programmers get paid more than the others. that's a fact.
go grab a C++ book for beginners, get a compiler, and start studying - now! i mean now!
if you want resources for C++:
http://www.bloodshed.net/devcpp.html -> download the
Dev-C++ 4 compiler (it's free and down-right good for beginners and intermediates)
http://cboard.cprogramming.com/ -> very very good forum for C++
http://freecomputerbooks.com/ -> for pete's sake get the C++ only, ok? don't confuse that head of yours..
if you want resources for PHP:
http://freecomputerbooks.com/ -> PHP ebooks
http://forums.devshed.com/ -> forum for PHP, also very good
>for an editor, you can use Dreamweaver, Zend Studio, or find a free one in download.com
and last but not the least, focus on one. don't divert! if it's C++, then it's C++. if it's PHP then it's PHP.