TNG S1 is... odd, to say the least. There are a few single episodes I do like, though. S2 starts off stronger compared to S1 (which is not that difficult) and starting with S3, TNG really takes off. Enjoy the ride!
Of course one can start with LD, but as I said before, it only worked for me because of all the references since the characters, the story and the style of comedy just don't do it for me personally.
The wheel of time... Or maybe the wheel of fire from Babylon 5?