These two expressions are almost ironic, for they could just as easily refer to the experiences of Bnei Yisrael on a national level, not just Moshe's own personal history. Throughout the rest of the story in Parshas Yisro, Moshe can hardly recall his personal experiences, instead focusing his discussions with Yisro on the national ones. The psukim concerning his son's names demonstrate the development of Moshe from an individual into a selfless leader. Moshe's selflessness is also demonstrated in his initial meeting with Yisro. Yisro had come with Tzipporah and her two sons, and one would have anticipated Moshe to react as one who hasn't seen his family for a substantial amount of time.
Foreign policy precedes family life.
This theme continues into the second part of the story as well. Yisro observes the way in which Moshe wearies himself while serving the nation. Yisro senses Moshe's selflessness and must argue accordingly. The idea of Moshe's selflessness as a leader needs to be established at this particular point in Sefer Shmos. Similarly, the Torah was to be given to Bnei Yisrael as a whole, and Moshe's solitary ascent to Har Sinai could only be justified by his self-effacement before the Nation.