Ricky Martin: "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am."

Ricky Martin, the popular singer and Latino music idol, has finally come out as a gay man.  Half an hour ago, Martin used his Twitter account to send a link to his website (earlier he had Tweeted "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter - M.L.K.Jr.").

In a statement, he discusses his upcoming memoir and his thoughts of having lived "years in silence and reflection".

You know that this isn't a GLAAD-vetted statement because Martin uses the word "homosexual" to describe himself (GLAAD would have advised to use the word 'gay' instead).

Here are the last three paragraphs in which the singer, long rumored to be gay, comes out:

These years in silence and reflection made me stronger and reminded me that acceptance has to come from within and that this kind of truth gives me the power to conquer emotions I didn't even know existed.

What will happen from now on? It doesn't matter. I can only focus on what's happening to me in this moment. The word "happiness" takes on a new meaning for me as of today. It has been a very intense process. Every word that I write in this letter is born out of love, acceptance, detachment and real contentment. Writing this is a solid step towards my inner peace and vital part of my evolution.

I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am.  

Welcome to your out gay life, Ricky Martin, we were waiting and for the moment you deemed to be the right time and the right time has come.  You have set an example by advocating for so many children in need throughout the world. Now you'll set an example for thousands of Latino LGBT youth who look up to you as an example.

Previously:

• What Ricky Martin actually said to TVaquí (June 22, 2009)
• Ricky Martin is possibly gay, possibly bisexual (June 21st, 2009)