Dee Grachek
What if the proposition is made that if Christ came for the heterosexual believer, then Christ comes for queer believers as well? This is a statement I live by, because it draws the LGBTQ community back into reclaiming their faith, while also reaching out to a generation that has decided that the hypocrisy of the church—‘some are in and some out’—can be addressed.
Resurrection is the moment you begin to live without abandoning yourself.
With a passion for capturing the world through words and images, I am a versatile, creative soul dedicated to weaving narratives and framing moments. My journey as a writer and photographer is a testament to the belief that stories are not only written but also visualized.
Writing Journey:
I write with thoughts from within, pre-coming out of the closet and post-coming out. My writing reflects what I have learned over the decades of hiding from my truth. The pictures in my writing represent how AI feels Ava might look, given whatever I have written. My name is Dee, but I write from the context of my two middle names, Ava Helen. I recognize that my coming out of the closet, while liberating for me, has been anything but liberating for my family. I wish that wasn’t happening, as I never meant to intentionally hurt anyone. I pray and hope my writing reflects my love for God and family.
As a wordsmith, I delve into the realms of fiction, non-fiction, and everything in between. My pen dances across the pages, creating vivid worlds, compelling characters, and thought-provoking narratives. From the eloquence of prose to the rhythm of poetry, I embrace the diverse forms that language offers, bringing emotions and ideas to life with each stroke of my metaphorical brush.
Published, my work reflects a commitment to exploring the human experience, from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Whether penning articles that resonate with the essence of everyday life or crafting stories that transport readers to fantastical realms, I aim to leave an indelible mark on hearts and minds.
Photography Passion:
Behind the lens, I find solace and inspiration in the visual symphony of the world. Each photograph is a frozen moment, telling a story that words alone may struggle to convey. From the play of light on landscapes to the candid expressions of people, my photography is a celebration of the beauty and complexity that surrounds us.
My portfolio spans various genres, showcasing a keen eye for detail and a dedication to capturing the essence of the subjects. Whether documenting the raw beauty of nature, the vibrant tapestry of cultures, or the intimate moments of human connection, my photography is a visual diary that invites viewers to see the world through my lens.
Philosophy:
In both writing and photography, I believe in the power of storytelling to connect us, transcend boundaries, and illuminate the shared threads of our humanity. Through my dual pursuits, I strive to create a harmonious blend of words and images that resonate with authenticity, emotion, and a timeless appreciation for the art of storytelling.
Join me on this journey of exploration and expression, where words and photographs converge.
“Fall in love looking through the lens and celebrate what is RIGHT in the world. By changing ‘if I see it I will believe it’ to ‘I believe it, therefore, now I see it’, you’ll find the extraordinary in the ordinary.”
– Dewitt Jones, National Geographic Photographer