luckedog,
I struggle to remember not to let my ego take credit for the results of my efforts. It seems like any accomplishment would be (mine) ....but, for me, only my efforts are truly (mine) and whatever follows [success or failure; ...or something inbetween] is just the natural result of my effort.
I guess it has to do with my "expectations" relationship to my "serenity"
Higher Expectations= Less Serenity
Lowered Expectations=Greater Serenity
You obviously have a full and demanding life, so you would naturally feel many people have high expectations, and in turn; you have high expectations of yourself also. It may be healthy to come to believe that those "expectations" can only be attached to your efforts (work), ............normally great results follow hard, well thought out efforts, but not always.
I'm having a tough time trying to explain the distinction, I think.
Anyway,
When I began to look at things this way, it seemed to relieve a lot of unnecessary stress.
The "not playing God" thing, wanting to control (and take credit for)the results of everything.
Stay Strong brother, ....you've got a lot on your plate.