Taming the male ego...again

Good morning,   The situation that arose pertained to leaving a scented candle burning after cleaning with the intent of having my Wife return home to a clean, relaxing/serene environment and then departing to pick up our daughter.  My Wife came home and discovered the candle and was appalled at my carelessness(understandable!)  When I returned home i was confronted with the situation and my mistake--which fortunately did not create any dire consequences.  Instead of OWNING IT... my reaction was snarky and flippant--i reacted vs responding.  

i've since apologized, however, i also understand that an apology without effort to change is NOT an apology.  This is also a recurring problem--yes, lessons are repeated until they are learned--so i am taking a HARD look at myself and trying to address this problem.  After reflection and processing as well as a sleepless night researching, i came to the conclusion that it's my EGO that is the problem.  And i'm saddened that my actions erode the TRUST, RESPECT and DEVOTION that i'm trying to construct.  While my Wife, is AMAZING, i don't want to add to Her plate, and want to make sure that i'm doing the work on my end.

If Y/you have dealt with this in your relationships, please share any insights or experiences that Y/you feel might be constructive.  Thank you!

mark