The major difference between Cav-El and Pre-Flashpoint Superman is that even when the world is cynical and skeptical and dark he doesn't ask Lois "why?", he does what he thinks is right despite his frustration (and he does voice his frustrations) and keeps pushing hoping he can turn the tide and inspire people. He also does everyday things with his powers. Even as the "Man" he's using his powers doing mundane everyday things like putting up fences, fixing up his house, fixing his landlord's tractor. Sure who cares about that boring ****, right? No, because the mundane things is what grounds Superman. If I had to change my car's oil having Superman's powers sure would come in handy. And that goes a step further by showing us that he could be and do whatever he wants with these awesome abilities, but instead he chooses to be one of us on the daily grind. That's the definition of humility.