01/04/21: Abandoned playing card #22: eight of spades

Found in Totteridge. According the the internet: "Eight of spades is the card of sickness. In the earlier ages this terrible card was an omen for plague, injuries and infections that were invariably fatal."

22/04/20: Abandoned playing card #20: three of spades

Totteridge. According to the internet: "Those born on a Three of Spade day find help from strong women. This is one of their blessings, and it is wise for the 3 of Spade to align themselves with women business associates, doctors, teachers or healers.

All 3 of Spade have strong magnetic personalities and they are quick to offer a helping hand. Disappointments in relationships are usually the result of misunderstandings over money. Best-case scenario for the 3 of Spade, “neither a lender nor a borrower be…”

Another karmic challenge for the 3 of Spade is worrying about who said what and to whom. While they can find themselves the subject of gossip or scandals, they must take care not to speak ill of others. As always - what goes around, comes around! And this is especially true for the 3♠."

25/03/18: Abandoned playing card #14: nine of spades

Whetstone. What does the internet say about the nine of spades? Well, it claims that: "The Nine of Spades has the strongest calling to let go of attachments in life and move toward giving to others. Answering the call of a spiritual life and trust in a benign universe is the life task of the Nine of Spades person. Influenced heavily by kingly energy, a certain amount of dignity accompanies this card. Their King of Hearts card in Venus suggests strong parental values and deep commitment to their children. They take their role as head of household quite seriously. This card also provides them a certain charm with the public and an ability to control their emotions. Being out in front of others provides them an opportunity to use their innate gifts for the benefit of others. Blessed with charisma and charm, they can excel in public positions."

05/12/17: Abandoned playing card #12: six of spades

Whetstone. According to THIS site: "The Six of Spades♠ has a deep sense of purpose about their lives as their life experiences continue to require them to evolve on a spiritual and emotional level. This card symbolizes the karmic Law of Cause and Effect: for every action there is an equal reaction. When the Six of Spades♠ person gives their best, focusing on the highest and best good for all, there’s no stopping them. Living responsibly, honestly, and in truth with their work and health, fulfillment is theirs to be had." The site also states: "People of this card and suit are ultimately here to experience life and themselves through work/labor, health, death/dying, wisdom and/or spirituality."

14/12/16: Abandoned playing cards #8 and #9: joker and ace of spades

Near Millwall Dock, E14. The joker has been a part of playing card sets since the 1860s. Tarot cards have included a jester/fool character since the 15th century, but apparently there is no connection.

Nearby was the ace of spades. According to the internet: "The Ace of Spades is the most spiritual card in the deck. It is the symbol of ancient mysteries and the card that represents transformation. Found in the Mercury/Neptune position of the Master Life Script, people with this card have the ability to reach spiritual truths more readily than perhaps any other card. Coupled with ancient wisdom is ambition and drive to achieve on a material level as well. Due to this merging of spiritual and mundane, being and doing, this card may experience a conflict between the two as they attempt to achieve balance in their life."

To others, "The Ace of Spades" is a memorable 1980 song by Motörhead.

28/06/16: Abandoned playing card: seven of spades

Thames Quay, E14. A single playing card seems enigmatic – portentous, even. I googled the seven of spades and learned that: "As one of the most spiritual cards in the deck, the Seven of Spades is here to learn faith and trust, particularly in the areas of their health and their work. Influenced by their Jupiter/Neptune position in the Master Spirit Script, they need to focus on higher values in order to receive the blessings available to them. Life’s reality does challenge their high ideals from time to time, thus the need for faith and trust."