Contrary to usual interactions, visitors should typically avoid initiating conversations during a shiva call. Instead, visitors should generally listen and offer support only when engaged. It is important to remember that the purpose of the shiva is to comfort mourners and allow the family to grieve. Visitors making a shiva call should be attentive to the needs of the mourners as well as the atmosphere in the shiva house. The fitting topic of conversation for a shiva is the deceased.