I think the 36 inner ring is the best option - I think the jump from 34 to 50 is a bit much. In fact, given that most of us aren't riding pro-tours, I don't understand why most bikes don't come with a 50/36 or a 48/34 (which would be the second best option and get you more in the big ring).

Ignore the comments about toughening up to ride taller gearing - if you're more comfortable spinning or riding a shorter gearing, that's what you should be doing. (If you're training for something specific, like a race, then it obviously makes sense to pay attention to strength and the ability to turn bigger gears. But if this is something you're doing for enjoyment, there's no point in trying to measure up to someone else's abstract view of what a cyclist should be doing.)