Hi! I'll be your guide! I'll be your G.U.I.D.E to the other side!
In a way, names prolong the lifespan of the memory of a person. When we read the name of a loved one, it is expected to have your mind invaded by memories of said person. Their face, their complexity, and even the sound of their voice, among other traits. Sometimes, it takes years for a name to stop being a bundle of memories, and just a name once again.
With that being said, perhaps it's better to omit names when writing your journal. One day, when you come back to read those old pages, chances are it wasn't the time for you to confront those memories yet. Chances are you will drown in the river of tears which that name yanked from your eyes. That name, that memory -- it didn't die yet. Without names, maybe that pain could be assuaged.
