Does embarrassment of a mistake cause coldness in a friendship?

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I have a friend who I've had awkward conversations with lately because he admitted he made a mistake a couple of times. Frequently, I told him it's okay or it's alright as I understand his situation and I think it's not a big deal. However, it seems like it's a big deal for him and it feels like we are growing apart. I attempted to make light of the situation and sometimes even joke around just so that he won't feel bad or feel sad about it but I can only go so far. What do you think of the situation? If you were in his situation, you made a mistake to your friend, would you react the same and become awkward/cold instead?