Okay don't take this too personal. But in my oppinion i think it's too early for you to buy a Gibson. You say your only just learning the mechanics of playing?... But thats just my oppinion.

Second thought: A Les Paul is a great guitar. Really great guitar. People say it's not versatile like a stratocaster, but boy, oh boy that aint true.
If you can learn to master the tone and volume knobs on the Les Paul. Then your in for a really rocking and VERSATILE guitar.

But buy what you want, i just think it's too early for you.