I love you, brother/sister

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Earlier today, I knocked on my brother's door. With his approval, I opened it part-way and told him, "'Ya, I love you." 'Ya' being a short term for Kuya or 'Big' Brother. I tend to call my younger brother that because we still have a younger brother. And I learned from my earlier days that the best way to teach someone is through example by actions. Now, to say that my brother was surprised was an understatement. He was downright weirded out. And in reaction, I think I too did have a weird expression on my face to match his. Only mine was probably more in surprise. Why would my brother or any of my siblings be surprised or weirded out if I tell them that I love them? Strangers should have that effect. Not them. Not when we're living under the same roof and I am constantly around them. They should feel my love for them. Right? But in that moment, it was not the case. I'm a bit alarmed by this. Because I always thought that we're close as siblings. Heck, even our neighbors think so too when we rarely raise our voices against each other. Then why this sudden gap between us? And then I realized. I don't often say those three little words as often as I should have. And what takes the cake is that in families these days, the siblings do not have a strong bond. The same bond as we siblings share with each other. Do they even know that they care for each other? Do they even take the time to hug each other? Or say those three little words? Well, whatever this gap is in between us, I don't want it to expand more. So I'm going to take responsibility now and bridge it before it becomes too wide and it's too late. Everyday I will tell them, "I love you." I will embrace them whether it's sunshine and rainbows, through darkness and storms. And make them feel that they are wanted. That they are loved. Because what can I give my siblings that would never fade if not my love for them?